Heart Health

What is it? Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is often fast and irregular heart rhythm that is more common with age. When this occurs in the heart, the pulse becomes irregular and the heart is less efficient. The most common causes of AF are: long-term high blood pressure diseases of the heart...

What is cardiovascular disease? Cardiovascular disease is a term for a range of diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels. These diseases stop the heart from working properly and can be fatal. The most common cardiovascular diseases are coronary heart disease, stroke and peripheral vascular disease.  Cardiovascular diseases are...

What is chest pain? Chest pain can feel like a dull ache, a sharp stab, or a crushing or burning sensation. You can feel chest pain anywhere from your jaw to your ribs. You should take any case of chest pain seriously, as it can be a sign of a...

What is Giant-cell arteritis? Giant-cell arteritis is an illness that happens when the body’s immune system attacks the blood vessels by mistake. This makes the walls of the blood vessels swollen and sore. It usually affects the blood vessels near the temples, which are on the sides of your head....

What is heart failure? Heart failure is when your heart can’t pump enough blood to the rest of your body. The most common causes of heart failure are heart disease, heart attack and high blood pressure. There is no ‘cure’ for heart failure. A healthy lifestyle, education and support can...

What is a heart murmur? A heart murmur is when the blood flowing through the heart makes an extra noise. Normal heart sounds make a "lubb-dubb" noise as blood flows through the heart. Most heart murmurs in children and will disappear with time. In some cases, heart murmurs are caused...

What is measuring your blood pressure? Measuring your blood pressure at home is an easy way to help your GP understand how your blood pressure changes throughout the day. You should use an accurate blood pressure device to measure your blood pressure. Measuring your blood pressure can help your GP...

What is rheumatic heart disease? Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) happens when your heart is damaged by acute rheumatic fever (ARF). It affects your heart valves. This means your heart cannot pump blood around the body as well as it should. Symptoms of RHD include: Shortness of breath Chest pain Swelling...