The Heart Doctor and Common Health Conditions

Those who keep themselves in reasonably fit condition, eat relatively healthily, and get some exercise may think they have no need to see a heart doctor. While this may be true for those under a certain age, you are always better safe than sorry. Certainly, should you experience any issues such as chest pain of any kind, you should seek medical attention immediately. And if you are at higher risk due to your lifestyle choices or your genetic disposition, you may need to see a cardiologist sooner than later just to make sure everything is functioning well. Here are some of the most common health conditions people experience regarding that most vital of organs.

Mitral Valve Prolapse
In the medical community, men often seem to get the lion’s share of the attention when it comes to the heart doctor and problems surrounding the cardiovascular system. This is perhaps because men tend to keep their extra weight in the abdomen and chest, which is exactly the area where studies have shown it is the most dangerous to arterial health. But mitral valve prolapse is a common condition that affects more women than men. This condition occurs when the valves essential for good blood flow fail to open and close the way they should. It can result in palpitations and fatigue in the patient, though it may cause no symptoms at all.

Coronary Artery Disease
Caused by atherosclerosis-plaque building up in the arteries-coronary artery disease is defined as the narrowing of these arteries, giving less room for blood to flow through the body. When this occurs, as any heart doctor can tell you, it can lead to a dangerous scenario for the individual in question. Without a good flow of blood, angina can develop, leading to chronic chest pain. Even more seriously, it can lead to clots inside the artery, which can lead directly to a heart attack. Risk factors for coronary artery disease include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and smoking.

Congenital Disease
As your heart doctor can confirm, not all conditions are caused by lifestyle choices. Some people are unfortunate enough to be born with congenital defects, which can cause problems of various levels of severity throughout their lives. The causes behind these defects are largely unknown, though chromosome abnormalities are seemingly to blame in some cases. Some of the more common defects include abnormal blood vessels, obstructive or defective valves, and bad arterial connections. If you have been diagnosed with such a defect, you should remain in regular contact with a heart doctor to make sure you get the treatment you need.