Many people think of heart problems as a health issue that affects only older adults. However, heart problems can occur in younger people, too. In fact, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and it can strike anyone.
At Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates, cardiovascular physician Dr. Nader Chadda specializes in comprehensive heart and vascular care. Our team encourages patients to prioritize their heart health.
It’s never too early to protect your heart health. By being aware of heart problems, younger individuals can recognize the symptoms and seek treatment early, which can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
In this post, our team puts together information on three heart problems about which even younger people should be aware.
Arrhythmia is a condition in which the heart beats irregularly. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including dizziness, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath.
While arrhythmia is more common in older people, it can occur in younger people. In fact, some types of arrhythmia are more common in younger people. It’s important to have an evaluation if you have arrhythmia.
Structural problems with the heart, such as enlarged heart, can cause arrhythmia. Other potential causes include high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid problems.
Identifying the underlying cause of arrhythmia is essential to developing an effective treatment plan that can reduce the risk of complications.
Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle. It can cause the heart to become enlarged, thickened, or stiff, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. In some cases, cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure.
This heart condition can occur in younger people. Causes of cardiomyopathy can include genetics, infections, and certain medications. Treatment for cardiomyopathy can include medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.
Congenital heart defects are issues with the structure of the heart that are present at birth. These defects can prevent the heart from working properly. Some congenital heart defects are diagnosed at birth or during childhood; however, others may go unnoticed.
This means that young adults can have congenital heart defects without knowing it. The implications of undiagnosed congenital heart defects can be significant and can lead to a range of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
In some cases, congenital heart defects can also lead to heart failure or even sudden cardiac arrest. Therefore, it's essential for young adults to be aware of the potential for congenital heart defects and to seek medical evaluation if they experience any symptoms or have a family history of heart problems.
Heart valve problems occur when one or more of the heart valves fail to function correctly, leading to inadequate blood flow to and from the heart. These conditions can be congenital, or they can develop later in life due to a variety of factors, such as infections, age-related wear and tear, or complications from certain medical procedures.
Younger people should be aware of heart valve problems because they can develop at any age. The symptoms of heart valve problems may vary depending on the severity and type of the condition, but some common signs to look out for include shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, fatigue, lightheadedness, fainting, and rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Some people may not experience any symptoms at all, which is why regular checkups are crucial, particularly for individuals with a family history of heart valve problems or other heart-related conditions.
If you have any heart symptoms, or are concerned about your heart health, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation Dr. Chadda. Keeping your heart healthy starts with awareness. To schedule a visit with us at Advanced Heart and Vascular Associates, call our Land O’ Lakes, Brooksville, or Hudson, Florida office, or request an appointment online today.
