The Definition of heart Disease

Many people do not know the actual meaning of heart disease as it is commonly misused with other terms.  Here is the definition of Heart Disease according to Mayo Clinic:

Heart disease is a broad term used to describe a range of diseases that affect your heart.  The various diseases that fall under the umbrella of heart disease include diseases of your blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease; heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias); heart infections; and heart defects you're born with (congenital heart defects).

The term "Heart Disease"  is often used interchangeably with "cardiovascular disease."  Cardiovascular disease generally refers to conditions that involve narrowed or blocked blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack, chest pain(angina) or stroke.  Other heart conditions, such as infections and conditions that affect your heart's muscle, valves or beating rhythm, also are considered forms of heart disease.

Many forms of heart disease can be prevented or treated with healthy lifestyle choices.