Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is a disease in which inflammation occurs in the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, eyes, skin, or other tissues. The exact cause is unknown. In those who have the disease, tiny clusters of immune cells called granulomas form in certain organs of the body. The disease can affect almost any organ, but most commonly affects…

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA)

A thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is an abnormal widening or ballooning of the aorta found in the chest. About 20% of cases are linked to family history. Risk factors for a thoracic aneurysm include: Changes caused by age Connective tissue disorders such as Marfan or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Inflammation of the aorta Injury from falls or motor vehicle…

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted, and enlarged veins that you can see under the skin. They most often occur in the legs but can also occur in other parts of the body. Nearly 25% of adults are thought to be affected by varicose veins. Risk factors include: Older age Being female Being born with defective…

Vasovagal Syncope

Vasovagal syncope, also known as neurocardiogenic syncope, is fainting caused by a sudden, temporary drop in blood flow to the brain. Vasovagal syncope is the most common type of syncope. It is usually caused by an intense emotional trigger like fear that reduces blood pressure and slows the heart.

Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome

Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome occurs when there an extra electrical pathway in the heart, which leads to period of tachycardia. In patients with WPW syndrome, some of the heart’s electrical signals go down an extra pathway. This may cause a very rapid heart rate called supraventricular tachycardia. Most people with WPW syndrome do not have any other…

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

An electrocardiogram, also called an ECG or EKG, is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It used to measure: Any damage to the heart How fast the heart is beating and whether it is beating normally The effects of drugs or devices used to control the heart (such as a pacemaker)…

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is cancer that starts in the lungs. There are two main types of lung cancer: Non-small cell lung cancer, which is the most common type of lung cancer Small cell lung cancer, which makes up about 20% of all lung cancers The following may increase your risk for lung cancer: Secondhand smoke Exposure…

Childhood Heart Defects Sometimes Don’t Show up Until Adulthood

Most adults are aware of the risks of “acquired” heart disease, but sometimes lurking beneath the surface are heart problems caused by “congenital” heart disease.