Possible heart conditions
The phrase "heart disease" covers a very wide range of conditions. Dr Levy is trained in a wide range of cardiology and general medical problems.
Angina
This is an awareness of chest pain usually felt as a tight band around the chest. The pain may radiate to the jaw or down the left arm. It may mimic indigestion. Angina is typically brought on by exertion and relieved by rest.
Atrial ectopic beats
An atrial ectopic beat is a problem in the electrical system of the heart.
Atrial fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation occurs when electrical impulses in the upper chambers of the heart (atria) begin in multiple sites in a chaotic pattern and are sent rapidly to the heart's lower chambers, causing them to contract irregularly and quickly.
Bundle branch block
A bundle branch block is either a complete or a partial interruption of the electrical pathways inside the wall of the heart between the two lower chambers (ventricles).
Coronary artery disease
Angina is chest pain or a sensation of pressure that occurs when the heart muscle is not getting enough oxygen. It is usually brought on by exercise and then relieved by rest.
Heart arrhythmia
Changes in the heart rhythm are called arrhythmias. They are described by the patient as palpitations.
Heart attack
A heart attack or myocardial infarction is a medical emergency in which the supply of blood to the heart is suddenly and severely reduced or cut off, causing the muscle to die from lack of oxygen.
Heart failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle fails to pump as much blood as the body needs. The faulty pumping means the body doesn't get the oxygen it needs. Pressure in the heart increases and the patient is aware of breathlessness.
Heart block
Symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness and collapse.
Mitral valve disease
This used to be associated with a history of rheumatic fever but now is more commonly degenerative.
Aortic valve disease
This is a narrowing of the opening of the aortic valve. It is due to abnormalities or aging of the valve.
Atrial flutter
This is a regular arrhythmia usually arising from the right atrium. It may require drug treatment, cardioversion or ablation.
