Symptoms And Treatments For Heart Conditions You Didn't Know Existed

Cardiac Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory condition that can affect a variety of organs. Cardiac sarcoidosis affects the heart and only occurs in a small number of those who already suffer from another type (e.g., pulmonary sarcoidosis). In this condition, granulomas (clusters of white blood cells) form within the heart tissue, most commonly where they can affect the heart’s electrical system. In severe cases, it can cause heart failure. This is considered a young person’s disease, as it typically affects those between twenty-five and forty-five years old. Unfortunately, the cause is unknown, though genetics may play a part since individuals appear to be at a higher risk if they have a relative with the condition. Another possible cause is an overreaction of the immune system to an infectious agent, such as an allergen.

Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, heart palpitations, fainting, arrhythmias, and swelling from excess fluid. Most often, cardiac sarcoidosis does not require treatment. When it does, however, it includes reducing inflammation in the body through corticosteroids and managing irregular heartbeats with anti-arrhythmic drugs, catheter ablation, or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. A transplant may occur in the most severe cases.

Continue for information on the next lesser-known heart condition that stems from an infection due to poor hygiene.