Heart and cardiovascular conditions

Angina

Caused by insufficient blood flow to the muscles of the heart, angina usually presents as chest pain. Here's how to recognise the signs of angina.

Aneurysms

An aneurysm is a bulge in an artery or vein caused by a weakened vessel wall. Learn about the types of aneurysm, its symptoms and how it's treated.

Aortic coarctation

This is a heart condition in which a section of the aorta, an important blood vessel, is narrowed. Aortic coarctation mainly affects newborn babies.

Aortic dissection

Aortic dissection is a rare but serious condition where there is a tear in the innermost wall of the aorta — the largest artery in the body.

Aortic stenosis

Aortic stenosis occurs when the aortic valve, a one-way door leading out of the heart, narrows — making it hard for the heart to pump blood through.

Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (when part of the heart ‘quivers’ rather than beating normally) could lead to a stroke. Know the symptoms and decrease your risk.

Bradycardia

Bradycardia is a slower than normal heart rate, which can lead to a range of symptoms such as feeling faint, tired or short of breath.

Brugada syndrome

This condition can disrupt the rhythm of your heart. It can cause palpitations, fainting or, in serious cases, cardiac arrest.

Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy is a heart condition caused by a damaged heart muscle. Discover what's behind cardiomyopathy, and how to manage it.

Coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis

Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as ‘ischaemic heart disease’, is the most common form of heart disease. Learn how to reduce your risk.

Endocarditis

This rare but potentially fatal condition is caused by infection of the inner lining of the heart. A quick diagnosis of endocarditis is vital.

Heart arrhythmias

Heart arrhythmias are irregular heartbeats. The heart can beat too fast, too slow or irregularly — learn how to recognise the symptoms here.

Heart attack

Acting fast when you notice the warning signs of a heart attack could save your life — or someone else's. Here's how to recognise the symptoms.

Heart failure

This is a condition where the heart struggles to pump enough blood. The diagnosis can be overwhelming, but it is possible to live with heart failure.

Heart murmur

Heart murmurs are extra sounds made by the heart. Some heart murmurs are serious, some are not — here's what you need to know.

Heart palpitations

If you become suddenly aware of your heartbeat, especially if it’s faster or harder, you could be having palpitations. Learn how to spot the signs.

High blood pressure (hypertension)

High blood pressure affects around 1 in 3 Australian adults, so it's important to know your risk of hypertension and how to prevent it.

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Although low blood pressure (hypotension) is better than high, it could signal an underlying condition. Consult your doctor if you have hypotension.

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is inflammation of the thin sheath around your heart. It can lead to problems ranging from swelling to a serious drop in blood pressure.

Peripheral vascular disease

Peripheral vascular disease refers to diseases of arteries outside the heart and brain, mainly in the legs and feet. Learn about the risk factors.

Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in the arteries that supply blood to the lungs, caused by one or more blood clots. Here's how to spot the signs.

Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is a serious inflammatory disease that affects the body's connective tissues, especially those of the heart, joints, brain and skin.

Stroke

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted. Learning the 'F.A.S.T.' test for stroke can save a person's life.

Tachycardia

Tachycardia is a condition where the heart beats at a faster rate than normal (usually more than 100 beats per minute).

Thrombosis

Thrombosis, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is where a blood clot forms in a vein or artery. Learn about the risk factors and how to prevent it.

Transient ischaemic attack (TIA)

A TIA has similar symptoms to a stroke but only lasts a few minutes. About 1 in 3 people who have a TIA will go on to have a stroke.

Illustration of the heart and cardiovascular system.