Can heart disease be inherited?

Written by Chen Tian Hua

Cardiology

Updated on October 27, 2024

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Whether heart disease is hereditary depends on the specific type of heart disease. Some heart conditions are hereditary diseases, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is an autosomal dominant inherited disease and can be inherited. Some heart diseases are related to genetics, such as coronary heart disease and dilated cardiomyopathy. These genetically related diseases significantly increase the risk of their offspring developing these conditions, but it does not necessarily mean that they will develop the disease, as environmental factors also play a crucial role. Of course, some heart diseases are not genetic, such as most congenital heart diseases, heart valve diseases, infective endocarditis, and myocarditis, which are not related to genetics.

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Written by Li Tao

Pulmonology

52sec

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How is cor pulmonale treated?

Cor pulmonale refers to the disease characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance due to pathological changes in the bronchi, lung tissue, thorax, or pulmonary vessels, leading to pulmonary arterial pressure and subsequently causing changes in the structure and function of the right ventricle. When cor pulmonale occurs, treatment is generally divided into the acute exacerbation phase where active control of infections, clearing of the airways, improvement of respiratory function, correction of hypoxia and carbon dioxide retention, control of respiratory failure and acute heart failure, and management of complications are emphasized. During the chronic remission phase, the goal is to enhance the patient's immune function, eliminate triggering factors, reduce or avoid the occurrence of acute exacerbations, and partially or fully restore cardiopulmonary function.

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Written by Zhang Yue Mei

Cardiology

43sec

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Can people with heart disease drink alcohol?

Patients with heart disease should avoid drinking alcohol, especially those with severe conditions such as heart failure and arrhythmias. Drinking can excite the sympathetic nervous system, increasing heart rate and triggering episodes of arrhythmia, and exacerbating heart failure. Heart disease patients typically require medication, and consuming alcohol during treatment can cause chemical changes in some medications, affecting their effectiveness. Both alcohol and medications need to be detoxified in the liver, so drinking while on medication can increase the liver's burden, potentially leading to long-term liver damage.

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Written by Xie Zhi Hong

Cardiology

1min 7sec

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Which place is the best for a heart disease massage?

Premature cardiac contractions can occur in normal individuals. For younger people, fewer than 3 contractions per minute generally poses no issue, whereas for older individuals, fewer than 5 per minute is considered normal. However, it is recommended to conduct a 24-hour Holter monitor test. If this test shows more than 10,000 occurrences in 24 hours, it is advisable to consult a specialist to determine if medication or hospital treatment, such as radiofrequency ablation, is needed. Additionally, it is crucial to investigate the causes of premature cardiac contractions. If serious diseases are ruled out, it may be helpful to massage corresponding acupoints. Generally, massaging acupoints like the Neiguan and Hegu, which are associated with the kidney and heart meridians, is suggested. Massage of the Fuxi acupoint is also recommended; located at the front of the thigh, it is easier to massage when seated with the knee bent at a 90-degree angle.

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Written by Li Tao

Pulmonology

1min 5sec

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Symptoms of cor pulmonale

Cor pulmonale refers to a disease characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance due to pathologies of the bronchi, lung tissue, chest wall, and blood vessels of the lungs, leading to pulmonary arterial hypertension and structural and functional changes in the right ventricle. The common clinical symptoms of cor pulmonale include coughing, expectoration, shortness of breath, significant palpitations, and breathing difficulties after physical activity, reduced work capacity, and exacerbation of the above symptoms during acute infection phases. Some patients may experience chest pain and hemoptysis. The second set of symptoms relates to heart and lung function, manifesting during the decompensation phase. For instance, some patients may develop respiratory failure, and experience headaches, decreased appetite, drowsiness, significant edema in the lower extremities, and further symptoms such as arrhythmias, anorexia, abdominal distension, and nausea.

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Written by Zhang Yue Mei

Cardiology

43sec

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What should be noted for rheumatic heart disease?

Rheumatic heart disease is caused by valvular pathology and often affects heart function. It is important to rest regularly, avoid overexertion, wear more clothing to prevent colds, and avoid exposure to cold winds. Each occurrence of a cold can exacerbate rheumatic heart disease. Dietary attention should focus on easily digestible, high-nutrient foods. Avoid consuming spicy and greasy foods, as they can lead to indigestion and gastrointestinal irritation, which can worsen symptoms of heart disease and increase the cardiac burden, bringing about adverse factors for the patient.