likely to feel tired for no reason. The most common cause of heart attacks is coronary artery disease (CAD). With CAD, there is a buildup of cholesterol and other material, called plaque, on their inner walls or the arteries. This is atherosclerosis . It can build up for years. Eventually an area of plaque can rupture (break open). A blood clot can form around the plaque and block the artery. A less common cause of heart attack is a severe spasm (tightening) of a coronary artery. The spasm cuts off blood flow through the artery. At the hospital, health care providers make a diagnosis based on your symptoms, blood tests, and different heart health tests . Treatments may include medicines and medical procedures such as coronary angioplasty . After a heart attack, cardiac rehabilitation and lifestyle changes can help you recover. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


What is heart disease? Heart disease is a general term that includes many types of heart problems. It's also called cardiovascular disease, which means heart and blood vessel disease. Coronary artery disease (also called coronary heart disease) is the most common type of heart disease in both men and women. It happens slowly over time when a sticky substance called plaque builds up in the arteries that supply your heart muscle with blood. The plaque narrows or blocks blood flow to the heart muscle and can lead to: Angina - chest pain from lack of blood flow Heart attacks - when part of the heart muscle dies from loss of blood flow Heart failure - when your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs Arrhythmia - a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat How does heart disease affect women? In the United States, heart disease is the number one cause of death in women. But women are often not diagnosed with heart disease as quickly as men are. That's because: Women are more likely than men to have "silent" heart disease, meaning that they don't have symptoms. Health care providers may not recognize heart disease in women because women's symptoms may be different from men's symptoms. Women are more likely than men to have certain types of heart disease that can be harder to diagnose. A delay in diagnosis may mean a delay in medical care that could help prevent serious problems, such as a heart attack. That's why it's important to learn about your risk for heart disease, the symptoms in women, and how to keep your heart healthy. What types of heart disease do women get? Women can get any type of heart disease. Like men, the most common type of heart


a heart attack. That's why it's important to learn about your risk for heart disease, the symptoms in women, and how to keep your heart healthy. What types of heart disease do women get? Women can get any type of heart disease. Like men, the most common type of heart disease among women is coronary artery disease. But there are certain types of heart disease which are less common, but affect women more often than men: Coronary microvascular disease - Chest pain from spasms (sudden tightening) in the smallest arteries of the heart that pinch off blood flow. It typically happens during rest or routine activities. This serious condition increases your risk of having a heart attack or other heart diseases. This type may be harder to diagnose since blockages in smaller arteries can be harder to see on imaging tests. Broken heart syndrome - Strong chest pain or other signs that look like a heart attack. It's caused by the stress of powerful emotions, such as deep grief, anger, or surprise. It can happen even if you're healthy. It mostly affects women after menopause and usually doesn't cause any lasting damage. Variant angina - A rare type of strong chest pain from spasms in the heart arteries. The pain usually happens in a pattern during sleep. Variant angina rarely causes a heart attack. Which women are more likely to develop heart disease? Your risk for developing heart disease increases with: Menopause . Women can develop heart disease at any age, but your risk increases after your periods stop, usually by age 55. Before menopause, your body makes more estrogen (a female hormone ) which helps protect against heart disease. That's why women generally develop coronary artery disease 10 years later than men. During and after menopause, estrogen levels drop


age, but your risk increases after your periods stop, usually by age 55. Before menopause, your body makes more estrogen (a female hormone ) which helps protect against heart disease. That's why women generally develop coronary artery disease 10 years later than men. During and after menopause, estrogen levels drop and your risk for heart diseases goes up. If your periods stop before age 40, your risk will be higher than other women your age. Family history of heart disease. Your risk for heart disease may be higher if your: Mother or sister had heart disease before age 65. Father or brother had heart disease before age 55. Problems during pregnancy , such as high blood pressure , gestational diabetes , anemia , and high blood pressure . Use of hormonal birth control (pills, patches, or vaginal rings with estrogen and progesterone). Endometriosis . Polycystic ovary syndrome . Inflammatory and autoimmune diseases . Metabolic syndrome . Mental health issues , such as stress, anxiety , or depression . Health risks from a lack physical activity . Obesity or being overweight. Diabetes . Low HDL cholesterol levels . Mild to moderate high blood pressure . Smoking . If you have one or more risks for heart disease, ask your health care provider for help understanding your risk level. Ask if you need any heart tests to help catch heart disease early. What are the symptoms of heart disease and heart attack in women? When women have symptoms of heart disease , they may include: Pain or discomfort in the chest that may be dull and heavy or sharp Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper belly, or back Nausea or vomiting Unusual fatigue Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air) during physical activity Women who have coronary artery


they may include: Pain or discomfort in the chest that may be dull and heavy or sharp Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper belly, or back Nausea or vomiting Unusual fatigue Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air) during physical activity Women who have coronary artery disease are more likely than men to have chest pain when resting or doing daily activities, rather than during exercise. They're also more likely than men to feel chest pain from mental stress. Symptoms of a heart attack in women may also be different than in men. Chest pain is the most common symptom for both sexes. It may feel like crushing or squeezing. But women are somewhat less likely than men to have chest pain. During a heart attack , women may feel: Pressure or tightness in the chest Pain in the upper back, arms, neck, jaw or throat Dizziness Unusual fatigue Indigestion , heartburn , nausea, or vomiting Stomach pain Shortness of breath Heart attacks usually don't look like the sudden, dramatic events we see in the movies. The symptoms may be mild or strong. They may start slowly. They can stop and then come back. Can heart disease in women be prevented? You can help lower your risk by: Learning how to prevent heart disease and making heart-healthy habits part of your daily life. Asking your provider about your personal risk for heart disease and the best way to manage your heart health. Remember, women can have heart disease without symptoms. But if you pay attention to your risk for heart disease, you can take action to prevent problems or keep them from getting worse. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


What is heart disease? Heart disease is a general term that includes many types of heart problems. It's a type of cardiovascular disease, which means heart and blood vessel disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but there are ways to prevent and manage many types of heart disease. What are the types of heart disease? There are many different types of heart disease. Some you may be born with, called congenital heart disease . Other types develop during your lifetime. Coronary artery disease (also called coronary heart disease) is the most common type of heart disease. It happens slowly over time when a sticky substance called plaque builds up in the arteries that supply your heart muscle with blood. The plaque narrows or blocks blood flow to the heart muscle and can lead to other heart problems: Angina - chest pain from lack of blood flow Heart attacks - when part of the heart muscle dies from loss of blood flow Heart failure - when your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs Arrhythmia - a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat Other types of heart diseases may affect your heart valves or heart muscle ( cardiomyopathy ). What causes heart diseases? The causes of heart disease depend on the type of disease. Some possible causes include lifestyle, genetics, infections, medicines, and other diseases. Who is more likely to develop heart diseases? There are many different factors that can make you more likely to develop heart disease. Some of these factors you can change, but others you cannot. Age. Your risk of heart disease goes up as you get older. Sex. Some factors may affect heart disease risk differently in women than in men. Family history and


that can make you more likely to develop heart disease. Some of these factors you can change, but others you cannot. Age. Your risk of heart disease goes up as you get older. Sex. Some factors may affect heart disease risk differently in women than in men. Family history and genetics. A family history of early heart disease raises your risk. And research has shown that some genes are linked to a higher risk of certain heart diseases. Race/ethnicity. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. However, certain groups have higher risks than others. This includes Black people, White people, and American Indian/Alaska Native people. Lifestyle habits. Over time, unhealthy lifestyle habits can raise your risk of heart disease. These can include: Eating a diet high in saturated fats , refined carbohydrates, and salt . Not getting enough physical activity . Drinking too much alcohol . Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke . Too much stress . Having other medical conditions can raise your risk of heart diseases. These conditions include: High blood pressure . High cholesterol levels . Diabetes . Obesity . Autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Chronic kidney disease . Metabolic syndrome . What are the symptoms of heart disease? Your symptoms will depend on the type of heart disease you have. You may not have symptoms at first. In some cases, you may not know you have heart disease until you have a complication such as a heart attack. How are heart diseases diagnosed? To find out if you have heart disease, your health care provider will: Ask about your medical history , including your symptoms Ask about your family health history , including relatives who have had heart disease Do a physical exam Likely run heart


heart attack. How are heart diseases diagnosed? To find out if you have heart disease, your health care provider will: Ask about your medical history , including your symptoms Ask about your family health history , including relatives who have had heart disease Do a physical exam Likely run heart tests and blood tests In some cases, your provider may refer you to a cardiologist (a doctor who specializes in heart diseases) for tests, diagnosis, and care. What are the treatments for heart disease? Treatment plans for heart disease depend on the type of heart disease you have, how serious your symptoms are, and what other health conditions you have. Possible treatments may include: Heart-healthy lifestyle changes Medicines Procedures or surgeries Cardiac rehabilitation Can heart diseases be prevented? You may be able to lower your risk of certain heart diseases by making heart-healthy lifestyle changes and managing any other medical conditions you have. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


What is heart failure? Heart failure means that your heart can't pump enough oxygen-rich blood to meet your body's needs. Heart failure doesn't mean that your heart has stopped or is about to stop beating. But without enough blood flow, your organs may not work well, which can cause serious problems. Heart failure can affect one or both sides of your heart: With right-sided heart failure , your heart is too weak to pump enough blood to your lungs to get oxygen. With left-sided heart failure , your heart can't pump enough oxygen-rich blood out to your body. This happens when the left side of your heart becomes either: Too weak to pump enough blood. Too thick or stiff to relax and fill with enough blood. Left-sided heart failure is more common than right-sided heart failure. What causes heart failure? Heart failure can start suddenly after a medical condition or injury damages your heart muscle. But in most cases, heart failure develops slowly from long-term medical conditions. Conditions that can cause heart failure include: Arrhythmia (a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat) Cardiomyopathy Congenital heart defects or other types of heart diseases that you are born with Coronary artery disease Endocarditis Heart attack Heart valve diseases High blood pressure A blood clot in your lung Diabetes Certain severe lung diseases , such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Obesity Over time, left-sided heart failure can lead to right-sided heart failure. Who is more likely to develop heart failure? Heart failure can happen at any age. It happens to both men and women, but men often develop it at a younger age than women. Your chance of developing heart failure increases if: You're 65 years old or older. Aging can weaken and stiffen your heart muscle. Your family


failure? Heart failure can happen at any age. It happens to both men and women, but men often develop it at a younger age than women. Your chance of developing heart failure increases if: You're 65 years old or older. Aging can weaken and stiffen your heart muscle. Your family health history includes relatives who have or have had heart failure. You have changes in your genes that affect your heart tissue. You have habits that can harm your heart , including: Smoking Eating foods high in fat , cholesterol , and sodium (salt) Having an inactive lifestyle Alcohol use disorder (AUD) Illegal drug use You have other medical conditions that can affect your heart , including: Any heart or blood vessel conditions, including high blood pressure Serious lung diseases Infection, such as HIV or COVID-19 Obesity Diabetes Sleep apnea Chronic kidney disease Anemia Thyroid disease Iron overload disease Cancer treatments that can harm your heart, such as radiation and chemotherapy You are African American. African Americans are more likely to develop heart failure and have more serious cases at younger ages than people of other races. Factors such as stigma, discrimination, income, education, and geographic region can also affect their risk of heart failure. What are the symptoms of heart failure? The symptoms of heart failure depend on which side of your heart is affected and how serious your condition has become. Most symptoms are caused by reduced blood flow to your organs and fluid buildup in your body. Fluid buildup happens because the flow of blood through your heart is too slow. As a result, blood backs up in the vessels that return the blood to your heart. Fluid may leak from the blood vessels and collect in the tissues of your body, causing swelling ( edema )


Fluid buildup happens because the flow of blood through your heart is too slow. As a result, blood backs up in the vessels that return the blood to your heart. Fluid may leak from the blood vessels and collect in the tissues of your body, causing swelling ( edema ) and other problems. Symptoms of heart failure may include: Feeling short of breath (like you can't get enough air) when you do things like climbing stairs. This may be one of the first symptoms you notice. Fatigue or weakness even after rest. Coughing . Swelling and weight gain from fluid in your ankles, lower legs, or abdomen (belly). Difficulty sleeping when lying flat. Nausea and loss of appetite. Swelling in the veins of your neck. Needing to urinate (pee) often . At first you may have no symptoms or mild symptoms. As the disease gets worse, your symptoms will usually bother you more. What other problems does heart failure cause? Fluid buildup and reduced blood flow to your organs can lead to serious problems, including: Breathing problems from fluid in and around your lungs (also called congestive heart failure) Kidney or liver damage , including cirrhosis Malnutrition if fluid buildup makes eating uncomfortable or if your stomach doesn't get enough blood flow to digest food properly Other heart conditions , such as irregular heartbeat and sudden cardiac arrest Pulmonary hypertension How is heart failure diagnosed? To find out if you have heart failure, your health care provider will Ask about your medical history , including your symptoms Ask about your family health history , including relatives who have had heart failure Do a physical exam Likely run heart tests and blood tests , including a brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) test In some cases, your provider may refer you to a


your medical history , including your symptoms Ask about your family health history , including relatives who have had heart failure Do a physical exam Likely run heart tests and blood tests , including a brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) test In some cases, your provider may refer you to a cardiologist (a doctor who specializes in heart diseases) for tests, diagnosis, and care. What are the treatments for heart failure? Your treatment will depend on the type of heart failure you have and how serious it is. There's no cure for heart failure. But treatment can help you live longer with fewer symptoms. Even with treatment, heart failure usually gets worse over time, so you'll likely need treatment for the rest of your life. Most treatment plans include: Taking medicine Eating less sodium and drinking less liquid to control fluid buildup Making other changes, such as quitting smoking , managing stress , and getting as much physical activity as your provider recommends Treating any conditions that may make heart failure worse You may need heart surgery if: You have a congenital heart defect or damage to your heart that can be fixed. The left side of your heart is getting weaker and putting a device in your chest could help. Devices include: An implantable cardioverter defibrillator. A biventricular pacemaker (cardiac resynchronization therapy). A mechanical heart pump (a ventricular assist device (VAD) or a total artificial heart). Your heart doctor recommends a heart transplant because your heart failure is life-threatening and nothing else is helping. As part of your treatment, you'll need to pay close attention to your symptoms, because heart failure can worsen suddenly. Your provider may suggest a cardiac rehabilitation program to help you learn how to manage your condition. Can heart failure be prevented? You may be able


nothing else is helping. As part of your treatment, you'll need to pay close attention to your symptoms, because heart failure can worsen suddenly. Your provider may suggest a cardiac rehabilitation program to help you learn how to manage your condition. Can heart failure be prevented? You may be able to prevent or delay heart failure if you: Work with your provider to manage any health conditions that increase your risk of developing heart failure Make healthy changes in your eating, exercise, and other daily habits to help prevent heart disease NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


Heart diseases are the number one killer in the United States. They are also a major cause of disability . If you do have heart disease, it is important to find it early, when it is easier to treat. Blood tests and heart health tests can help find heart diseases or identify problems that can lead to heart diseases. There are several different types of heart health tests. Your health care provider will decide which test or tests you need, based on your symptoms (if any), risk factors , and medical history. Cardiac Catheterization Cardiac catheterization is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat some heart conditions. For the procedure, your provider puts a catheter (a long, thin, flexible tube) into a blood vessel in your arm, groin, or neck, and threads it to your heart. The provider can use the catheter to: Do a coronary angiography. This involves putting a special type of dye in the catheter, so the dye can flow through your bloodstream to your heart. Then your provider takes x-rays of your heart. The dye allows your provider to see your coronary arteries on the x-ray, and to check for coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries . Take samples of your blood and heart muscle. Examine your heart valves . Do procedures such as angioplasty or minor heart surgeries to repair congenital heart defects or replace heart valves. Cardiac CT Scan A cardiac CT ( computed tomography ) scan is a painless imaging test that uses x-rays to take detailed pictures of your heart and its blood vessels. Computers can combine these pictures to create a three-dimensional (3D) model of your whole heart. This test can help providers detect or evaluate various heart problems, including: Coronary artery disease


scan is a painless imaging test that uses x-rays to take detailed pictures of your heart and its blood vessels. Computers can combine these pictures to create a three-dimensional (3D) model of your whole heart. This test can help providers detect or evaluate various heart problems, including: Coronary artery disease Calcium buildup in the coronary arteries Congenital heart defects Problems with the aorta (the main artery that carries blood away from the heart) Problems with heart function and valves Pericardial diseases Before you have the test, you get an injection of contrast dye. The dye highlights your heart and blood vessels in the pictures. The CT scanner is a large, tunnel-like machine. You lie still on a table that slides you into the scanner, and the scanner takes the pictures. Cardiac MRI Cardiac MRI ( magnetic resonance imaging ) is a painless imaging test that uses radio waves, magnets, and a computer to create detailed pictures of your heart. It can help your provider figure out whether you have heart disease, and if so, how severe it is. A cardiac MRI can also help your provider decide the best way to treat heart problems such as: Congenital heart defects Coronary artery disease Heart valve problems Pericarditis Cardiac tumors Damage from a heart attack The MRI is a large, tunnel-like machine. You lie still on a table that slides you into the MRI machine. The machine makes loud noises as it takes pictures of your heart. Sometimes before the test, you might get an injection of contrast dye. The dye highlights your heart and blood vessels in the pictures. Chest X-Ray A chest x-ray creates pictures of the organs and structures inside your chest, such as your heart, lungs, and blood vessels. It can reveal signs of heart failure , as


might get an injection of contrast dye. The dye highlights your heart and blood vessels in the pictures. Chest X-Ray A chest x-ray creates pictures of the organs and structures inside your chest, such as your heart, lungs, and blood vessels. It can reveal signs of heart failure , as well as lung disorders and other causes of symptoms not related to heart disease. Coronary Angiography Coronary angiography (angiogram) is a procedure that uses contrast dye and x-ray pictures to look at the insides of your arteries. It can show whether plaque is blocking your arteries and how severe the blockage is. Providers use this procedure to diagnose heart diseases after chest pain , sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), or abnormal results from other heart tests such as an EKG or a stress test. You usually have a cardiac catheterization to inject the dye into your coronary arteries. Then the provider will take special x-rays while the dye is flowing through your coronary arteries. The dye lets your provider study the flow of blood through your heart and blood vessels. Echocardiography Echocardiography, or echo, is a painless test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. The pictures show the size and shape of your heart. They also show how well your heart's chambers and valves are working. Providers use an echo to diagnose many different heart problems, and to check how severe they are. There are several different types of echocardiography. For transthoracic echocardiography (the most common type), a technician applies gel to your chest. The gel helps sound waves reach your heart. The technician moves a transducer (wand-like device) across your chest. The transducer connects to a computer. It transmits ultrasound waves into your chest, and the waves bounce (echo) back. The computer converts the echoes


type), a technician applies gel to your chest. The gel helps sound waves reach your heart. The technician moves a transducer (wand-like device) across your chest. The transducer connects to a computer. It transmits ultrasound waves into your chest, and the waves bounce (echo) back. The computer converts the echoes into pictures of your heart. Electrocardiogram (EKG), (ECG) An electrocardiogram, also called an ECG or EKG, is a painless test that detects and records your heart's electrical activity. It shows how fast your heart is beating and whether its rhythm is steady or irregular. An EKG may be part of a routine exam to screen for heart disease. Or you may get it to detect and study heart problems such as heart attacks, arrhythmia , and heart failure. For the test, you lie still on a table and a nurse or technician attaches electrodes (patches that have sensors) to the skin on your chest, arms, and legs. Wires connect the electrodes to a machine that records your heart's electrical activity. Stress Testing Stress testing looks at how your heart works during physical stress. It can help to diagnose coronary artery disease, and to check how severe it is. It can also check for other problems, including heart valve disease and heart failure. For the test, you exercise (or are given medicine if you are unable to exercise) to make your heart work hard and beat fast. While this is happening, you get an EKG and blood pressure monitoring. Before or after the test, you might also have an echocardiogram, or other imaging tests such as a nuclear scan . For the nuclear scan, you get an injection of a tracer (a radioactive substance), which travels to your heart. Special cameras detect the energy from the tracer to craeate pictures of


after the test, you might also have an echocardiogram, or other imaging tests such as a nuclear scan . For the nuclear scan, you get an injection of a tracer (a radioactive substance), which travels to your heart. Special cameras detect the energy from the tracer to craeate pictures of your heart. You have pictures taken after you exercise, and then after you rest. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


What is heart surgery? Heart surgery can correct certain heart problems when other treatments haven't worked or can't be used. In some cases, heart surgery may be a medical emergency. For example, surgery for a severe heart attack may need to be done right away. In other cases, you can plan heart surgery ahead of time. Some heart surgeries are major operations, such as heart bypass surgery for blocked arteries in the heart. Other surgeries are more minor heart procedures, such as putting in a pacemaker. What conditions does heart surgery treat? There are different types of heart surgery that can help treat many heart conditions: What conditions does heart surgery treat? What does the heart surgery do? Coronary artery disease (CAD) - when a sticky substance called plaque narrows or blocks the arteries that supply blood to your heart muscle. Makes a new path for blood to flow around the blocked part of an artery in the heart. This is called a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) , or heart bypass. It's the most common heart surgery in adults. Heart valve diseases - problems with the valves that control the flow of blood through your heart. Repairs heart valves. Replaces heart valves with a mechanical valve or a biologic valve made from pig, cow, or human heart tissue. Arrhythmia - problems with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat. They are caused by changes in the electrical signals that control your heartbeat. Places a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) in the chest to correct your heartbeat. Treats atrial fibrillation with small cuts in the heart muscle. The cuts form scars that make a path for the heart's electrical signals (Maze surgery). Heart failure - when your heart is too weak or stiff to pump enough oxygen-rich blood


defibrillator (ICD) in the chest to correct your heartbeat. Treats atrial fibrillation with small cuts in the heart muscle. The cuts form scars that make a path for the heart's electrical signals (Maze surgery). Heart failure - when your heart is too weak or stiff to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to meet your body's needs. Places a device in the chest which may include: An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to help prevent sudden cardiac arrest . A biventricular pacemaker to coordinate the heart's pumping action so it's more powerful. A ventricular assist device to help the heart pump blood. A total artificial heart to pump blood for the heart. Replaces a seriously diseased heart with a heathy heart ( heart transplantation ). Heart aneurysm - a balloon-like bulge in the wall of an artery. It can be life-threatening if the aneurysm tears or bursts. Repairs or replaces the weak part of a heart artery using a patch or a tube made of fabric. Angina - chest pain from coronary artery disease. Uses a laser to make small channels through part of the heart muscle (transmyocardial laser revascularization). Damaged and abnormal heart structures, including congenital heart defects - heart structure problems that you're born with. Repairs heart damage or problems with how the heart and blood vessels are formed. Repairs depend on the type of defect or damage. What approaches do surgeons use to do heart surgery? The approach a surgeon uses to do heart surgery depends on your heart problem, your general health, and other factors. Approaches to heart surgery include: Open-heart surgery (also called traditional heart surgery) is when the surgeon cuts the chest open to reach the heart. Because it's difficult to operate on a beating heart, medicines are used to stop the heart. A heart-lung bypass machine


your general health, and other factors. Approaches to heart surgery include: Open-heart surgery (also called traditional heart surgery) is when the surgeon cuts the chest open to reach the heart. Because it's difficult to operate on a beating heart, medicines are used to stop the heart. A heart-lung bypass machine keeps oxygen-rich blood pumping through the body during the surgery. Off-pump heart surgery is open-heart surgery on a beating heart without using a heart-lung bypass machine. The surgeon holds the heart steady with a device. Surgeons may use off-pump heart surgery to do coronary artery bypass grafts (CABG), but only in certain cases. Minimally invasive heart surgery uses small cuts between the ribs. The cuts may be as small as 2 to 3 inches. The surgeon inserts tools into the chest through the cuts. This type of heart surgery may or may not use a heart-lung bypass machine. Robotic-assisted surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery. The surgeon uses a computer to control tools on the arms of a robot. This allows the surgeon to be very accurate when doing difficult operations. What are the risks of heart surgery? Like all surgery, heart surgery has risks even though the results are often excellent. The risks include: Bleeding Infection, fever , and swelling A problem from anesthesia (medicine that makes you sleep during surgery) Arrhythmia Damage to the heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs Stroke The risks of heart surgery tend to be higher if: The surgery is an emergency. You have other medical conditions, including: Diabetes Kidney diseases Lung diseases Peripheral artery disease (PAD) NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


A heart transplant removes a damaged or diseased heart and replaces it with a healthy one. The healthy heart comes from a donor who has died. It is the last resort for people with heart failure when all other treatments have failed. The heart failure might have been caused by coronary heart disease, damaged heart valves or heart muscles, congenital heart defects, or viral infections of the heart. Although heart transplant surgery is a life-saving measure, it has many risks. Careful monitoring, treatment, and regular medical care can prevent or help manage some of these risks. After the surgery, most heart transplant patients can return to their normal levels of activity. However, fewer than 30% return to work for many different reasons. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


What are heart valve diseases? Heart valve disease happens when one or more of your heart valves don't work well. Your heart has four valves: the tricuspid, pulmonary, mitral, and aortic valves. The valves have flaps that open and close. The flaps make sure that blood flows in the right direction through your heart and to the rest of your body. When your heart beats, the flaps open to let blood through. Between heartbeats they close to stop the blood from flowing backwards. If one or more of your heart valves doesn't open or close correctly, it can affect your blood flow and strain your heart. Fortunately, treatment helps most valve diseases. What are the types of heart valve diseases? Heart valves can have three basic kinds of problems: Regurgitation , or backflow, happens when the flaps of a valve don't close tightly. This allows the blood to leak backwards. A common cause of regurgitation is prolapse, where the flaps of the valve flop or bulge back. Prolapse most often affects the mitral valve . Stenosis happens when the flaps of a valve become thick, stiff, or stuck together. This prevents the heart valve from opening all the way. Not enough blood can pass through the valve. Aortic valve stenosis is a common type of stenosis. It affects the valve that controls blood flow into the large artery that carries blood out of the heart to the body. Atresia happens when a heart valve did not form properly and does not have an opening for blood to pass through. Sometimes a valve can have both regurgitation and stenosis. What causes heart valve diseases? Some people are born with heart valve disease. This is called congenital heart valve disease. It can happen alone or along with other congenital heart defects .


not have an opening for blood to pass through. Sometimes a valve can have both regurgitation and stenosis. What causes heart valve diseases? Some people are born with heart valve disease. This is called congenital heart valve disease. It can happen alone or along with other congenital heart defects . Heart valve disease can also develop over time as you get older or have certain conditions that affect the heart. Who is more likely to develop heart valve diseases? Your chance of having heart valve disease is higher if: You are older. With age, the heart valves can become thick and stiff. You have or have had other conditions that affect your heart and blood vessels. These include: Rheumatic fever. An untreated strep throat can become rheumatic fever, which can harm the heart valves. The damage may not show up for years. Today, most people take antibiotics to cure strep throat before it can cause heart valve damage. Endocarditis . This is a rare infection in the lining of the heart and heart valves. It is usually caused by bacteria in the bloodstream. A heart attack. Heart failure . Coronary artery disease , especially when it affects the aorta (the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the body). High blood pressure. High blood cholesterol . Diabetes . Obesity and overweight. Lack of physical activity . A family history of early heart disease: A father or brother who had heart disease younger than 55. A mother or sister who had heart disease younger than 65. You were born with an aortic valve that wasn't formed right. Sometimes this will cause problems right away. Other times, the valve may work well enough for years before causing problems. What are the symptoms of heart valve diseases? Many people live their


who had heart disease younger than 65. You were born with an aortic valve that wasn't formed right. Sometimes this will cause problems right away. Other times, the valve may work well enough for years before causing problems. What are the symptoms of heart valve diseases? Many people live their whole lives with a heart valve that doesn't work perfectly and never have any problems. But heart valve disease may get worse slowly over time. You may develop signs and symptoms, such as: Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air) Fatigue Swelling in your feet, ankles, abdomen (belly), or the veins in your neck Chest pain when you're physically active Arrhythmia , a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat Dizziness or fainting If you don't get treatment for heart valve disease, the symptoms and strain on your heart may keep getting worse. What other problems can heart valve diseases cause? When the valves don't work well, your heart has to pump harder to get enough blood out to the body. Without treatment, this extra workload on your heart can lead to: Heart failure Stroke Blood clots Sudden cardiac arrest or death How is heart valve disease diagnosed? Your health care provider may listen to your heart with a stethoscope and hear that your heart makes abnormal sounds, such as a click or a heart murmur. These sounds may mean a valve isn't working normally. The provider will usually refer you to a cardiologist, a doctor who specializes in heart diseases. The doctor will also listen to your heart and will do a physical exam. You will also likely need to have one or more heart tests . What are the treatments for heart valve diseases? Most heart valve problems can be treated successfully. Treatment


doctor who specializes in heart diseases. The doctor will also listen to your heart and will do a physical exam. You will also likely need to have one or more heart tests . What are the treatments for heart valve diseases? Most heart valve problems can be treated successfully. Treatment may include: Medicines to control your symptoms and keep your heart pumping well Heart-healthy lifestyle changes to treat other related heart conditions Surgery to repair or replace a valve It's possible that you may need surgery, even if you don't have symptoms. Fixing the valve can help prevent future heart problems. There are many ways to do heart valve surgery. You and your doctor can decide what's best for you, based on your valve problem and general health. Heart valve repair surgery has fewer risks than heart valve replacement. So, when repair is possible, it's preferred over valve replacement. In some cases, valve replacement is necessary. There are 2 types of replacement valves: Biologic valves made from pig, cow, or human tissue. These valves tend to wear out after 10 to 15 years, but some may last longer. Mechanical (human-made) valves usually don't wear out. But with a mechanical valve, you usually have to take blood thinners for the rest of your life to prevent blood clots. And your risk of endocarditis (a heart infection) is higher than with a biologic valve. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


Heartburn is a painful burning feeling in your chest or throat. It happens when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. If you have heartburn more than twice a week, you may have GERD . But you can have GERD without having heartburn. Pregnancy, certain foods, alcohol, and some medications can bring on heartburn. Treating heartburn is important because over time reflux can damage the esophagus. Over-the-counter medicines may help. If the heartburn continues, you may need prescription medicines or surgery. If you have other symptoms such as crushing chest pain, it could be a heart attack . Get help immediately.


Your body normally cools itself by sweating. During hot weather, especially when it is very humid, sweating just isn't enough to cool you off. Your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels and you can develop a heat illness. Most heat illnesses happen when you stay out in the heat too long. Exercising and working outside in high heat can also lead to heat illness. Older adults, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are most at risk. Taking certain medicines or drinking alcohol can also raise your risk. Heat-related illnesses include: Heat stroke - a life-threatening illness in which body temperature may rise above 106 °F (41 °C) in minutes. Symptoms include dry skin, a rapid, strong pulse, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. If you see any of these signs, get medical help right away. Heat exhaustion - an illness that can happen after several days of exposure to high temperatures and not enough fluids. Symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid breathing, and a fast, weak pulse. If it is not treated, it can turn into heat stroke. Heat cramps - muscle pains or spasms that happen during heavy exercise. You usually get them in your abdomen, arms, or legs. Heat rash - skin irritation from excessive sweating. It is more common in young children. You can lower your risk of heat illness by drinking fluids to prevent dehydration , replacing lost salt and minerals, and limiting your time in the heat. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention


Heel problems are common and can be painful. Often, they result from too much stress on your heel bone and the tissues that surround it. That stress can come from: Injuries Bruises that you get walking, running or jumping Wearing shoes that don't fit or aren't made well Being overweight These can lead to tendinitis, bursitis, and fasciitis, which are all types of inflammation of the tissues that surround your heel. Over time the stress can cause bone spurs and deformities. Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, can also lead to heel problems. Treatments for heel problems might include rest, medicines, exercises, taping, and special shoes. Surgery is rarely needed.


Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that causes infection in the stomach. It is the main cause of peptic ulcers , and it can also cause gastritis and stomach cancer . About 30 to 40% of people in the United States get an H. pylori infection. Most people get it as a child. H. pylori usually does not cause symptoms. But it can break down the inner protective coating in some people's stomachs and cause inflammation. This can lead to gastritis or a peptic ulcer. Researchers aren't sure how H. pylori spreads. They think that it may spread by unclean food and water, or through contact with an infected person's saliva and other body fluids. A peptic ulcer causes a dull or burning pain in your stomach, especially when you have an empty stomach. It lasts for minutes to hours, and it may come and go for several days or weeks. It may also cause other symptoms, such as bloating, nausea, and weight loss. If you have the symptoms of a peptic ulcer, your health care provider will check to see whether you have H. pylori. There are blood, breath, and stool tests to check for H. pylori. In some cases, you may need an upper endoscopy , often with a biopsy . If you do have a peptic ulcer, the treatment is with a combination of antibiotics and acid-reducing medicines. You will need to be tested again after treatment to make sure the infection is gone. There is no vaccine for H. pylori. Since H. pylori might spread through unclean food and water, you might be able to prevent it if you: Wash your hands after using the bathroom and before eating Eat properly prepared food Drink water from a clean, safe source NIH: National Institute


There is no vaccine for H. pylori. Since H. pylori might spread through unclean food and water, you might be able to prevent it if you: Wash your hands after using the bathroom and before eating Eat properly prepared food Drink water from a clean, safe source NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases


Hemochromatosis is a disease in which too much iron builds up in your body. Your body needs iron but too much of it is toxic. If you have hemochromatosis, you absorb more iron than you need. Your body has no natural way to get rid of the extra iron. It stores it in body tissues, especially the liver, heart, and pancreas. The extra iron can damage your organs. Without treatment, it can cause your organs to fail. There are two types of hemochromatosis. Primary hemochromatosis is an inherited disease. Secondary hemochromatosis is usually the result of something else, such as anemia, thalassemia, liver disease, or blood transfusions. Many symptoms of hemochromatosis are similar to those of other diseases. Not everyone has symptoms. If you do, you may have joint pain, fatigue, general weakness, weight loss, and stomach pain. Your doctor will diagnose hemochromatosis based on your medical and family histories, a physical exam, and the results from tests and procedures. Treatments include removing blood (and iron) from your body, medicines, and changes in your diet. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute


La hemocromatosis es una enfermedad en la que exceso de hierro se acumula en su cuerpo. Su cuerpo necesita hierro, pero demasiado resulta tóxico. Si usted tiene hemocromatosis, absorbe más hierro de lo que necesita. Su cuerpo no tiene cómo deshacerse del hierro adicional en forma natural. Éste se almacena en los tejidos del cuerpo, especialmente el hígado, corazón y páncreas. El hierro adicional puede dañar sus órganos. Sin tratamiento, puede causar que sus órganos fallen. Hay dos tipos de hemocromatosis. La hemocromatosis primaria es una enfermedad hereditaria. Hemocromatosis secundaria es generalmente el resultado de algo más, como la anemia, la talasemia, enfermedad hepática o transfusiones de sangre. Muchos de los síntomas de la hemocromatosis se parecen a los de otras enfermedades. No todos muestran síntomas. Si lo hace, usted puede presentar dolor en las articulaciones, fatiga, debilidad general, pérdida de peso y dolor de estómago. Su médico diagnosticará la hemocromatosis tomando en cuenta sus antecedentes médicos y familiares, un examen físico y los resultados de pruebas y procedimientos. Los tratamientos incluyen la eliminación de la sangre (y el hierro) de su cuerpo, medicamentos y cambios en su dieta. NIH: Instituto Nacional del Corazón, los Pulmones y la Sangre


¿Qué es la hemofilia? La hemofilia es un problema de la coagulación raro en el que la sangre no coagula como debería. Esto puede causar problemas de sangrado excesivo después de una lesión o cirugía. También puede tener sangrado repentino dentro del cuerpo, como en sus articulaciones, músculos y órganos. Su sangre contiene muchas proteínas llamadas factores de coagulación que pueden ayudar a formar coágulos para detener el sangrado. Las personas con hemofilia tienen niveles bajos de uno de estos factores, generalmente el factor VIII (8) o el factor IX (9). La gravedad de la hemofilia depende de la cantidad de factor en la sangre. Cuanto más baja sea la cantidad del factor, más probable es que se produzca una hemorragia y que esto cause problemas de salud graves. ¿Cuáles son los tipos de hemofilia? Hay varios tipos diferentes de hemofilia. Los más comunes son: Hemofilia A (hemofilia clásica): Causada por la falta o disminución del factor de coagulación VIII (8) Hemofilia B (enfermedad de Christmas): Causada por la falta o disminución del factor de coagulación IX (9) ¿Qué causa la hemofilia? La mayoría de los tipos de hemofilia son heredados. Son causados por un cambio en uno de los genes (también llamado variación) que entrega instrucciones para producir las proteínas del factor de coagulación. Este cambio puede significar que las proteínas de coagulación no funcionan bien o que faltan por completo. Estos genes están en el cromosoma X. Es posible que tenga uno o dos cromosomas X: Las personas que nacen varones tienen un cromosoma X (de la madre) y un cromosoma Y (del padre). Pueden contraer hemofilia si su único cromosoma X tiene el cambio genético Las personas que nacen mujeres tienen dos cromosomas X, uno del padre y otro de la madre. Por lo general, solo contraen


que nacen varones tienen un cromosoma X (de la madre) y un cromosoma Y (del padre). Pueden contraer hemofilia si su único cromosoma X tiene el cambio genético Las personas que nacen mujeres tienen dos cromosomas X, uno del padre y otro de la madre. Por lo general, solo contraen hemofilia si: Ambos cromosomas X tienen el cambio genético ó Un cromosoma X tiene el gen modificado y el otro cromosoma X falta o está inactivo Las personas que nacen mujeres con el cambio genético en un cromosoma X son "portadoras" de la hemofilia. A veces pueden tener algunos síntomas de hemofilia, y pueden transmitir el cambio genético a sus hijos. La hemofilia que no se hereda se llama hemofilia adquirida. Es poco común. Ocurre cuando el cuerpo produce proteínas especializadas llamadas autoanticuerpos que atacan y desactivan un factor de coagulación. Esto puede ocurrir debido a un embarazo, trastornos del sistema inmunitario , cáncer o reacciones alérgicas a ciertos medicamentos. A veces la causa es desconocida. ¿Quién está en riesgo de hemofilia? La hemofilia es mucho más común en personas que nacieron varones, ya que pueden contraerla con un cambio en el gen de un cromosoma X. Las personas que tienen antecedentes familiares de hemofilia también corren un mayor riesgo. ¿Cuáles son los síntomas de la hemofilia? Los signos y síntomas de la hemofilia son: Sangrado en las articulaciones. Esto puede causar hinchazón y dolor u opresión en las articulaciones. A menudo afecta las rodillas, los codos y los tobillos Sangrado en la piel (que son moretones ) Sangrado en el músculo y el tejido blando, lo que puede causar una acumulación de sangre en el área (llamado hematoma) Sangrado de la boca y las encías, incluyendo sangrado difícil de detener después de perder un diente Sangrado después de la


Sangrado en la piel (que son moretones ) Sangrado en el músculo y el tejido blando, lo que puede causar una acumulación de sangre en el área (llamado hematoma) Sangrado de la boca y las encías, incluyendo sangrado difícil de detener después de perder un diente Sangrado después de la circuncisión Sangrado después de recibir inyecciones, como vacunas Sangrado en la cabeza de un bebé después de un parto difícil Sangre en la orina o las heces Sangrados nasales frecuentes y difíciles de detener En algunos casos, la hemofilia severa puede causar sangrado en el cerebro. Esto puede causar daño cerebral y puede poner en peligro la vida. ¿Cómo se diagnostica la hemofilia? Para saber si tiene hemofilia, su profesional de la salud puede: Preguntar sobre su historial médico, incluyendo síntomas y otras afecciones de salud que pueda tener Preguntar sobre sus antecedentes familiares, para saber si tiene familiares que tengan o hayan tenido hemofilia Realizar un examen físico para buscar signos de hemofilia, como hematomas Solicitar ciertos análisis de sangre para mostrar si su sangre está coagulando como debe. Si no es así, se le realizarán pruebas de factor de coagulación para diagnosticar la causa del trastorno hemorrágico. Estos análisis de sangre mostrarían el tipo de hemofilia y su gravedad. Hay pruebas genéticas para los genes del factor VIII (8) y del factor IX (9). Esta prueba se puede usar en personas que tienen antecedentes familiares de hemofilia para: Identificar a las personas que son portadoras antes de tomar decisiones sobre un embarazo Hacer pruebas para la hemofilia a un feto durante el embarazo Hacer pruebas para la hemofilia a un recién nacido ¿Cuáles son los tratamientos para la hemofilia? La mejor manera de tratar la hemofilia es reemplazar el factor de coagulación faltante para que la sangre pueda


decisiones sobre un embarazo Hacer pruebas para la hemofilia a un feto durante el embarazo Hacer pruebas para la hemofilia a un recién nacido ¿Cuáles son los tratamientos para la hemofilia? La mejor manera de tratar la hemofilia es reemplazar el factor de coagulación faltante para que la sangre pueda coagular bien. En general, esto se hace inyectando un factor de coagulación de reemplazo en una vena. El factor de coagulación de reemplazo se puede hacer a partir de sangre humana donada. O puede hacerse en un laboratorio; a lo que se llama factor de coagulación recombinante. El factor de coagulación de reemplazo puede ayudar a tratar un episodio de sangrado. En los casos más graves de hemofilia, es posible que reciba el factor de manera regular para prevenir el sangrado. Puede aprender cómo inyectar el factor para que pueda hacerlo usted mismo en casa. Hay otros medicamentos para tratar la hemofilia. Pueden funcionar liberando el factor VIII (8) desde donde está almacenado en los tejidos del cuerpo, reemplazando la función del factor VIII (8) o evitando que se disuelvan los coágulos. Si el sangrado ha dañado sus articulaciones, la terapia física puede ayudar a mejorar su funcionamiento. Una atención médica de buena calidad entregada por profesionales de la salud con amplios conocimientos sobre el trastorno puede ayudar a prevenir algunos problemas graves. A menudo, la mejor opción de atención es visitar un centro de tratamiento para la hemofilia (en inglés) . Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades


What is hemophilia? Hemophilia is a rare bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly. This can lead to problems with bleeding too much after an injury or surgery. You can also have sudden bleeding inside your body, such as in your joints, muscles, and organs. Your blood contains many proteins called clotting factors that can help form clots to stop bleeding. People with hemophilia have low levels of one of these factors, usually either factor VIII (8) or factor IX (9). How severe the hemophilia is depends on the amount of factor in the blood. The lower the amount of the factor, the more likely it is that bleeding could happen and might lead to serious health problems. What are the types of hemophilia? There are several different types of hemophilia. The most common are: Hemophilia A (classic hemophilia), which is caused by a lack or decrease of clotting factor VIII (8) Hemophilia B (Christmas disease), which is caused by a lack or decrease of clotting factor IX (9) What causes hemophilia? Most types of hemophilia are inherited. They are caused by change in one of the genes (also called a mutation) that provides instructions for making the clotting factor proteins. The change may mean that the clotting proteins don't work properly or that they are missing altogether. These genes are on the X chromosome. You may have one or two X chromosomes: People who are born male have one X chromosome (from the mother) and one Y chromosome (from the father). They can get hemophilia if their one X chromosome has the gene change. People who are born female have two X chromosomes, one from the father and one from the mother. They usually only get hemophilia if: Both X chromosomes have the gene change OR


Y chromosome (from the father). They can get hemophilia if their one X chromosome has the gene change. People who are born female have two X chromosomes, one from the father and one from the mother. They usually only get hemophilia if: Both X chromosomes have the gene change OR One X chromosome has the gene change and the other X chromosome is missing or inactive. People who are born female who have the gene change on one X chromosome are a "carrier" of hemophilia. Sometimes they may have some symptoms of hemophilia. They can pass the gene change on to their children. Hemophilia that is not inherited is called acquired hemophilia. It is rare. It happens when your body makes specialized proteins called autoantibodies that attack and disable a clotting factor. This can happen because of pregnancy, immune system disorders , cancer, or allergic reactions to certain medicines. Sometimes the cause is unknown. Who is at risk for hemophilia? Hemophilia is much more common in people who were born male since they can get it with a change to the gene on one X chromosome. People who have a family history of hemophilia are also at higher risk. What are the symptoms of hemophilia? The signs and symptoms of hemophilia are: Bleeding into the joints. This can cause swelling and pain or tightness in the joints. It often affects the knees, elbows, and ankles. Bleeding into the skin (which is bruising ). Bleeding into the muscle and soft tissue, which can cause a build-up of blood in the area (called a hematoma). Bleeding of the mouth and gums, including bleeding that is hard to stop after you lose a tooth. Bleeding after circumcision . Bleeding after having shots, such as vaccinations . Bleeding in the head of an infant


which can cause a build-up of blood in the area (called a hematoma). Bleeding of the mouth and gums, including bleeding that is hard to stop after you lose a tooth. Bleeding after circumcision . Bleeding after having shots, such as vaccinations . Bleeding in the head of an infant after a difficult delivery. Blood in the urine or stool. Frequent and hard-to-stop nosebleeds. In some cases, severe hemophilia may cause bleeding in the brain. This may cause brain damage and can be life-threatening. How is hemophilia diagnosed? To find out if you have hemophilia, your health care provider will: Ask about your medical history, including your symptoms and other health conditions you may have. Ask about your family history, to find out if you have relatives who have or had hemophilia. Do a physical exam to look for signs of hemophilia, such as bruising. Do certain blood tests to show if your blood is clotting properly. If it does not, then you will have clotting factor tests to diagnose the cause of the bleeding disorder. These blood tests would show the type of hemophilia and the severity. There is genetic testing for the factor VIII (8) and factor IX (9) genes. This testing may be used in people who have a family history of hemophilia to: Identify people who are carriers before they make decisions about pregnancy Test a fetus for hemophilia during pregnancy Test a newborn for hemophilia What are the treatments for hemophilia? The best way to treat hemophilia is to replace the missing clotting factor so that your blood can clot properly. This is usually done by injecting replacement clotting factor into a vein. The replacement clotting factor may be made from donated human blood. Or it may be made in a lab; this kind is


treat hemophilia is to replace the missing clotting factor so that your blood can clot properly. This is usually done by injecting replacement clotting factor into a vein. The replacement clotting factor may be made from donated human blood. Or it may be made in a lab; this kind is called a recombinant clotting factor. Replacement clotting factor can help treat a bleeding episode. In more severe cases of hemophilia, you might get the factor on a regular basis to prevent bleeding. You can learn how to inject the factor so that you can do it yourself at home. There are other medicines to treat hemophilia. They may work by releasing factor VIII (8) from where it is stored in the body tissues, replacing the function of factor VIII (8), or preventing clots from breaking down. If bleeding has damaged your joints, physical therapy may help them function better. Good quality medical care from healthcare professionals who know a lot about the disorder can help prevent some serious problems. Often the best choice for care is to visit a hemophilia treatment center (HTC) . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention


El sangrado o hemorragia es la pérdida de sangre. Puede ser externo o dentro del cuerpo. Usted puede sangrar al hacerse un corte o una herida . También puede ocurrir cuando sufre una lesión en un órgano interno. Algunos tipos de sangrado, como la hemorragia gastrointestinal , toser con sangre o el sangrado vaginal , pueden ser un síntoma de una enfermedad. Usualmente, cuando tiene una herida y comienza a sangrar, se forma un coágulo sanguíneo para detener la hemorragia rápidamente. Luego, el coágulo se disuelve naturalmente. Para poder formar un coágulo, su sangre necesita proteínas sanguíneas llamadas factores de coagulación y un tipo de glóbulo llamado plaqueta. Algunas personas tienen problemas con la coagulación debido a otra afección médica o una enfermedad hereditaria. Existen dos tipos de estos problemas: Es posible que su sangre no forme coágulos normalmente, lo que se conoce como trastorno de la coagulación . Esto sucede cuando su cuerpo no produce suficientes plaquetas o factores de coagulación, o no funcionan bien Su sangre puede formar demasiados coágulos, o los coágulos pueden no disolverse adecuadamente En ocasiones, la hemorragia puede causar otros problemas. Un hematoma es sangrado debajo de la piel. Algunos accidentes cerebrovasculares son causados por sangrado en el cerebro. Ciertas hemorragias pueden requerir primeros auxilios o ir a la sala de emergencias .


Las vías intestinales o gastrointestinales incluyen el esófago, el estómago, el intestino delgado, el intestino grueso o colon, el recto y el ano. La hemorragia (sangrado) puede provenir de una o más de estas zonas. La cantidad de sangre puede ser tan pequeña que sólo se detecta con pruebas de laboratorio. Los signos de hemorragia en el tracto digestivo dependen de dónde se encuentra y cuánto sangrando hay. Los signos de sangrado en el tracto digestivo superior incluyen: Sangre de un color rojo brillante en el vómito Vómito que parece café molido Heces negras o alquitranadas Sangre oscura mezclada con heces Heces mezcladas o recubiertas de sangre de color rojo brillante Los signos de sangrado en el tracto digestivo inferior incluyen: Heces negras o alquitranadas Sangre oscura mezclada con heces Heces mezcladas o recubiertos de sangre de color rojo brillante La hemorragia gastrointestinal no es una enfermedad, sino el síntoma de una enfermedad. Existen muchas causas posibles de hemorragia gastrointestinal, entre ellas se encuentran hemorroides , úlceras pépticas , desgarres o inflamación en el esófago, diverticulosis y diverticulitis , colitis ulcerativa o ulcerosa y enfermedad de Crohn , pólipos del colon o cáncer de colon , estómago o esófago . La prueba que se utiliza con mayor frecuencia para conocer la causa de la hemorragia gastrointestinal se llama endoscopía . Se utiliza un instrumento flexible que se inserta a través de la boca o el recto para ver el interior de las vías intestinales (GI). Un tipo de endoscopía que analiza el intestino grueso se llama colonoscopía . NIH: Instituto Nacional de la Diabetes y las Enfermedades Digestivas y Renales


Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are a group of illnesses caused by four families of viruses. These include the Ebola and Marburg, Lassa fever, and yellow fever viruses. VHFs have common features: they affect many organs, they damage the blood vessels, and they affect the body's ability to regulate itself. Some VHFs cause mild disease, but some, like Ebola or Marburg, cause severe disease and death. VHFs are found around the world. Specific diseases are usually limited to areas where the animals that carry them live. For example, Lassa fever is limited to rural areas of West Africa where rats and mice carry the virus. The risk for travelers is low, but you should avoid visiting areas where there are disease outbreaks. Because there are no effective treatments for some of these viral infections, there is concern about their use in bioterrorism . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention


What is a hemorrhagic stroke? A stroke happens when there is a loss of blood flow to part of the brain. Your brain cells cannot get the oxygen and nutrients they need from blood, and they start to die within a few minutes. This can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death. There are two main types of strokes, ischemic and hemorrhagic. A hemorrhagic stroke is less common but often more severe. It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding (hemorrhage) in or around the brain. This bleeding increases pressure inside the skull and damages brain tissue. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. What are the types of hemorrhagic stroke? Hemorrhagic strokes are classified by where the bleeding happens: Intracerebral hemorrhage. Bleeding occurs directly into the brain tissue. This is the most common type of hemorrhagic stroke. Subarachnoid hemorrhage. Bleeding occurs in the space between the brain and the thin layers of tissues covering it. This often happens when a weak spot in an artery (called an aneurysm) bursts on the brain's surface. What causes hemorrhagic stroke? Common causes include: Aneurysm . A bulge or "ballooning" in a weakened artery wall that can burst. Arteriovenous malformation (AVM). A tangled group of abnormal blood vessels that can rupture inside the brain. High blood pressure (hypertension). Over time, it can weaken blood vessel walls and increase the risk of them breaking open. Head trauma. Brain injury can cause bleeding. What are the symptoms of a hemorrhagic stroke? Stroke symptoms often happen suddenly. They include: Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body) Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding speech Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination


hemorrhagic stroke? Stroke symptoms often happen suddenly. They include: Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body) Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding speech Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination Sudden severe headache with no known cause The F.A.S.T. test can help you remember what to look for if you think someone is having a stroke. Think "FAST" and look for: F ace drooping on one side when smiling. A rm weakness occurs when the arms are raised, and one arm drifts downward. S peech is slurred or strange. T ime to call 911. How is a hemorrhagic stroke diagnosed? To make a diagnosis, your health care provider may do a physical exam, ask about your symptoms and medical history, and use imaging tests to check for bleeding in your brain. How is hemorrhagic stroke treated? It is important to treat strokes as quickly as possible. For a hemorrhagic stroke, the first step is to find the cause of bleeding in the brain and stop it. Treatment may involve medicines or, in some cases, surgery to stop the bleeding or relieve pressure on the brain. After the stroke, rehabilitation can help people recover lost abilities and regain independence. Can a hemorrhagic stroke be prevented? The best way to prevent stroke is by making heart-healthy lifestyle changes to lower your risk. If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your provider may prescribe medicine to help manage your risk factors. NIH: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke


What are hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins around your anus or the lower part of your rectum . There are two types: External hemorrhoids, which form under the skin around your anus Internal hemorrhoids, which form in the lining of your anus and lower rectum What causes hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids happen when there is too much pressure on the veins around the anus. This can be caused by: Straining during bowel movements . Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time. Chronic constipation or diarrhea . A low- fiber diet. Weakening of the supporting tissues in your anus and rectum. This can happen with aging and pregnancy . Frequently lifting heavy objects. What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids? The symptoms of hemorrhoids depend on which type you have: With external hemorrhoids, you may have: Anal itching One or more hard, tender lumps near your anus Anal pain, especially when sitting Too much straining, rubbing, or cleaning around your anus may make your symptoms worse. For many people, the symptoms of external hemorrhoids go away within a few days. With internal hemorrhoids, you may have: Bleeding from your rectum - you would see bright red blood in your stool, on toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement Prolapse, which is a hemorrhoid that has fallen through your anal opening Internal hemorrhoids are usually not painful unless they are prolapsed. Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids may cause pain and discomfort. How can I treat hemorrhoids at home? You can most often treat your hemorrhoids at home by: Eating foods that are high in fiber. Taking a stool softener or a fiber supplement. Drinking enough fluids every day. Not straining during bowel movements. Not sitting on the toilet for long periods of time. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers . Taking warm


most often treat your hemorrhoids at home by: Eating foods that are high in fiber. Taking a stool softener or a fiber supplement. Drinking enough fluids every day. Not straining during bowel movements. Not sitting on the toilet for long periods of time. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers . Taking warm baths several times a day to help relieve pain. This could be a regular bath or a sitz bath. With a sitz bath, you use a special plastic tub that allows you to sit in a few inches of warm water. Using over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams, ointments, or suppositories to relieve mild pain, swelling, and itching of external hemorrhoids. When do I need to see a health care provider for hemorrhoids? You should see your health care provider if you: Still have symptoms after 1 week of at-home treatment. Have bleeding from your rectum. Hemorrhoids are a common cause of bleeding, but other conditions can also cause bleeding. They include Crohn's disease , ulcerative colitis , colorectal cancer , and anal cancer . So it's important to see your provider to find the cause of the bleeding. How are hemorrhoids diagnosed? To find out if you have hemorrhoids, your health care provider: Will ask about your medical history. Will do a physical exam. Often providers can diagnose external hemorrhoids by looking at the area around your anus. Will do a digital rectal exam to check for internal hemorrhoids. For this, the provider will insert a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for anything that is abnormal. May do procedures such as an anoscopy to check for internal hemorrhoids. What are the treatments for hemorrhoids? If at-home treatments for hemorrhoids don't help you, you may need a medical procedure. There are several different procedures that your provider can do in


to feel for anything that is abnormal. May do procedures such as an anoscopy to check for internal hemorrhoids. What are the treatments for hemorrhoids? If at-home treatments for hemorrhoids don't help you, you may need a medical procedure. There are several different procedures that your provider can do in the office. These procedures use different techniques to cause scar tissue to form in the hemorrhoids. This cuts off the blood supply, which usually shrinks the hemorrhoids. In severe cases, you may need surgery. Can hemorrhoids be prevented? You can help prevent hemorrhoids by: Eating foods that are high in fiber Taking a stool softener or a fiber supplement Drinking enough fluids every day Not straining during bowel movements Not sitting on the toilet for long periods of time NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases


¿Qué son las hemorroides? Las hemorroides son venas inflamadas o hinchadas alrededor del ano o la parte inferior de su recto . Hay dos tipos: Hemorroides externas: Se forman debajo de la piel alrededor del ano Hemorroides internas: Se forman en el revestimiento del ano y el recto inferior ¿Qué causa las hemorroides? Las hemorroides ocurren cuando hay demasiada presión en las venas alrededor del ano. Esto puede ser causado por: Esfuerzo durante las deposiciones Sentarse en el baño por demasiado tiempo Estreñimiento crónico o diarrea Dieta baja en fibra Debilitamiento de los tejidos de soporte en el ano y recto: Esto puede suceder con el envejecimiento y el embarazo Levantar frecuentemente objetos pesados ¿Cuáles son los síntomas de las hemorroides? Los síntomas de las hemorroides dependen del tipo que tenga: En las hemorroides externas, puede tener: Picazón anal Uno o más bultos duros y sensibles cerca del ano Dolor anal, especialmente al estar sentado Hacer demasiado esfuerzo, frotarse o limpiarse alrededor de su ano puede empeorar sus síntomas. Para muchas personas, los síntomas de las hemorroides externas desaparecen en pocos días. En las hemorroides internas, puede tener: Sangrado del recto: Verá sangre roja brillante en las heces, en el papel higiénico o en la taza del inodoro después de defecar Prolapso: Es una hemorroide que sale a través del orificio anal En general, las hemorroides internas no son dolorosas a menos que estén prolapsadas. Las hemorroides internas prolapsadas pueden causar dolor e incomodidad. ¿Cómo puedo tratar las hemorroides en casa? Usted puede tratar las hemorroides en casa al: Consumir alimentos ricos en fibra Tomar un ablandador de heces o un suplemento de fibra Beber suficientes líquidos todos los días No hacer mucho esfuerzo durante las deposiciones No sentarse en el baño por largos períodos de tiempo Tomar analgésicos de


casa? Usted puede tratar las hemorroides en casa al: Consumir alimentos ricos en fibra Tomar un ablandador de heces o un suplemento de fibra Beber suficientes líquidos todos los días No hacer mucho esfuerzo durante las deposiciones No sentarse en el baño por largos períodos de tiempo Tomar analgésicos de venta libre Tomar baños calientes varias veces al día para ayudar a aliviar el dolor: Esto puede ser un baño normal o un baño de asiento. Para el baño de asiento, utilice una bañera de plástico especial que le permita sentarse en unas pocas pulgadas de agua tibia Usar cremas, ungüentos o supositorios para hemorroides de venta libre para aliviar el dolor leve, la hinchazón y la picazón de las hemorroides externas ¿Cuándo es necesario ver a un profesional de la salud por hemorroides? Debería ver a su proveedor de atención médica si: Todavía tiene síntomas después de una semana de tratamiento en el hogar Tiene hemorragia rectal : Las hemorroides son una causa común de sangrado, pero otras afecciones también pueden causar sangrado, como la enfermedad de Crohn , colitis ulcerativa , cáncer colorrectal y cáncer anal . Por ello, es importante consultar a su proveedor para encontrar la causa del sangrado ¿Cómo se diagnostican las hemorroides? Para saber si tiene hemorroides, su profesional de la salud: Le preguntará sobre su historia clínica Hará un examen físico: A menudo, los proveedores pueden diagnosticar hemorroides externas al observar el área alrededor del ano Hará un examen rectal digital para verificar si hay hemorroides internas. Para esto, el profesional de la salud insertará un dedo enguantado y lubricado en el recto para detectar cualquier cosa anormal Puede realizar procedimientos como una anoscopia para verificar si hay hemorroides internas ¿Cuáles son los tratamientos para las hemorroides? Si los tratamientos caseros para las


si hay hemorroides internas. Para esto, el profesional de la salud insertará un dedo enguantado y lubricado en el recto para detectar cualquier cosa anormal Puede realizar procedimientos como una anoscopia para verificar si hay hemorroides internas ¿Cuáles son los tratamientos para las hemorroides? Si los tratamientos caseros para las hemorroides no ayudan, es posible que necesite un procedimiento médico. Hay varios procedimientos diferentes que su profesional de la salud puede hacer en la consulta. Estos procedimientos usan diferentes técnicas para causar la formación de tejido cicatricial en las hemorroides, lo que corta el suministro de sangre, generalmente reduciendo las hemorroides. En casos severos, puede necesitar cirugía. ¿Se pueden prevenir las hemorroides? Puede ayudar a prevenir las hemorroides si: Consume alimentos ricos en fibra Toma un ablandador de heces o un suplemento de fibra Bebe suficientes líquidos todos los días No se esfuerza durante las deposiciones No se sienta en el baño durante largos períodos de tiempo NIH: Instituto Nacional de la Diabetes y las Enfermedades Digestivas y Renales


What is hepatitis? Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver . Inflammation is swelling that happens when tissues of the body are injured or infected. It can damage your liver. This swelling and damage can affect how well your liver functions. Hepatitis can be an acute (short-term) infection or a chronic (long-term) infection. Some types of hepatitis cause only acute infections. Other types can cause both acute and chronic infections. What causes hepatitis? There are different types of hepatitis, with different causes: Viral hepatitis is the most common type. It is caused by one of several viruses -- hepatitis viruses A , B , C , D, and E. In the United States, A, B, and C are the most common. Alcoholic hepatitis is caused by heavy alcohol use Toxic hepatitis can be caused by certain poisons, chemicals, medicines, or supplements Autoimmune hepatitis is a chronic type in which your body's immune system attacks your liver. The cause is not known, but genetics and your environment may play a role. How is viral hepatitis spread? Hepatitis A and hepatitis E usually spread through contact with food or water that was contaminated with an infected person's stool. You can also get hepatitis E by eating undercooked pork, deer, or shellfish. Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and hepatitis D spread through contact with the blood of someone who has the disease. Hepatitis B and D may also spread through contact with other body fluids. This can happen in many ways, such as sharing drug needles or having unprotected sex. Who is at risk for hepatitis? The risks are different for the different types of hepatitis. For example, with most of the viral types, your risk is higher if you have unprotected sex. People who drink a lot over long periods of time are at


needles or having unprotected sex. Who is at risk for hepatitis? The risks are different for the different types of hepatitis. For example, with most of the viral types, your risk is higher if you have unprotected sex. People who drink a lot over long periods of time are at risk for alcoholic hepatitis. What are the symptoms of hepatitis? Some people with hepatitis do not have symptoms and do not know they are infected. If you do have symptoms, they may include: Fever Fatigue Loss of appetite Nausea and/or vomiting Abdominal pain Dark urine Clay-colored bowel movements Joint pain Jaundice , yellowing of your skin and eyes If you have an acute infection, your symptoms can start anywhere between 2 weeks to 6 months after you got infected. If you have a chronic infection, you may not have symptoms until many years later. What other problems can hepatitis cause? Chronic hepatitis can lead to complications such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver failure, and liver cancer . Early diagnosis and treatment of chronic hepatitis may prevent these complications. How is hepatitis diagnosed? To diagnose hepatitis, your health care provider: Will ask about your symptoms and medical history Will do a physical exam Will likely do blood tests, including tests for viral hepatitis Might do imaging tests , such as an ultrasound , CT scan , or MRI May need to do a liver biopsy to get a clear diagnosis and check for liver damage What are the treatments for hepatitis? Treatment for hepatitis depends on which type you have and whether it is acute or chronic. Acute viral hepatitis often goes away on its own. To feel better, you may just need to rest and get enough fluids. But in some cases, it may be more serious. You


for hepatitis? Treatment for hepatitis depends on which type you have and whether it is acute or chronic. Acute viral hepatitis often goes away on its own. To feel better, you may just need to rest and get enough fluids. But in some cases, it may be more serious. You might even need treatment in a hospital. There are different medicines to treat the different chronic types of hepatitis. Possible other treatments may include surgery and other medical procedures. People who have alcoholic hepatitis need to stop drinking. If your chronic hepatitis leads to liver failure or liver cancer, you may need a liver transplant . Can hepatitis be prevented? There are different ways to prevent or lower your risk for hepatitis, depending on the type of hepatitis. For example, not drinking too much alcohol can prevent alcoholic hepatitis. There are vaccines to prevent hepatitis A and B. Autoimmune hepatitis cannot be prevented. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases


¿Qué es la hepatitis? La hepatitis es la inflamación del hígado . Inflamación es la hinchazón de órganos que ocurren cuando se lesionan o infectan, y puede dañar su hígado. La hinchazón y daño puede afectar el buen funcionamiento de este órgano. La hepatitis puede ser una infección aguda (a corto plazo) o una infección crónica (a largo plazo). Algunos tipos de hepatitis solo causan infecciones agudas. Otros pueden causar infecciones tanto agudas como crónicas. ¿Qué causa la hepatitis? Existen diferentes tipos de hepatitis, con diferentes causas: La hepatitis viral es el tipo más común. Es causada por uno de varios tipos, los virus de la hepatitis A , B , C , D y E. En los Estados Unidos, A, B y C son los más comunes La hepatitis alcohólica es causada por el consumo excesivo de alcohol La hepatitis tóxica puede ser causada por ciertos venenos, productos químicos, medicamentos o suplementos La hepatitis autoinmune es un tipo crónico en el que su sistema inmunitario ataca su hígado. Se desconoce la causa, pero la genética y el entorno pueden influir ¿Cómo se transmite la hepatitis viral? En general, la hepatitis A y la hepatitis E se transmiten a través del contacto con alimentos o agua contaminados con las heces de una persona infectada. También puede contraer hepatitis E al comer carne de cerdo, ciervo o mariscos poco cocidos. La hepatitis B, C y D se transmiten a través del contacto con la sangre de una persona con la enfermedad. La hepatitis B y D también se pueden propagar a través del contacto con otros fluidos corporales. Esto puede suceder de muchas maneras, como compartir agujas de drogas o tener relaciones sexuales sin protección. ¿Quién está en riesgo de contraer hepatitis? Los riesgos son diferentes para los distintos tipos de


La hepatitis B y D también se pueden propagar a través del contacto con otros fluidos corporales. Esto puede suceder de muchas maneras, como compartir agujas de drogas o tener relaciones sexuales sin protección. ¿Quién está en riesgo de contraer hepatitis? Los riesgos son diferentes para los distintos tipos de hepatitis. Por ejemplo, con la mayoría de los tipos virales, su riesgo es mayor si tiene relaciones sexuales sin protección. Las personas que beben mucho durante períodos prolongados corren el riesgo de contraer hepatitis alcohólica. ¿Cuáles son los síntomas de la hepatitis? Algunas personas con hepatitis no presentan síntomas y no saben que están infectadas. Si se presentan síntomas, pueden incluir: Fiebre Fatiga Pérdida de apetito Náusea y/o vómitos Dolor abdominal Orina oscura Heces de color arcilla Dolor en las articulaciones Ictericia (coloración amarillenta de la piel y los ojos) Si tiene una infección aguda, sus síntomas pueden comenzar entre 2 semanas y 6 meses después de haberse infectado. Si tiene una infección crónica, es posible que no tenga síntomas hasta muchos años después. ¿Qué otros problemas puede causar la hepatitis? La hepatitis crónica puede provocar complicaciones como cirrosis (cicatrización del hígado), insuficiencia hepática y cáncer de hígado . El diagnóstico y el tratamiento temprano de la hepatitis crónica pueden prevenir estas complicaciones. ¿Cómo se diagnostica la hepatitis? Para diagnosticar la hepatitis, su profesional de la salud puede: Preguntar sobre sus síntomas y su historia clínica Hacer un examen físico Es probable que le hagan análisis de sangre, incluyendo pruebas de hepatitis viral Puede realizar pruebas de diagnóstico por imágenes , como una ecografía , una tomografía computarizada o una resonancia magnética Es posible que sea necesario realizar una biopsia de hígado para obtener un diagnóstico claro y verificar si hay daño hepático ¿Cuáles son los tratamientos para la hepatitis?


de hepatitis viral Puede realizar pruebas de diagnóstico por imágenes , como una ecografía , una tomografía computarizada o una resonancia magnética Es posible que sea necesario realizar una biopsia de hígado para obtener un diagnóstico claro y verificar si hay daño hepático ¿Cuáles son los tratamientos para la hepatitis? El tratamiento para la hepatitis depende del tipo que tenga y si es aguda o crónica. La hepatitis viral aguda a menudo desaparece por sí sola. Para sentirse mejor, es posible que solo necesite descansar y tomar suficientes líquidos. Pero en algunos casos puede ser más serio. Incluso podría necesitar tratamiento en un hospital. Hay diferentes medicamentos para tratar los distintos tipos crónicos de hepatitis. Otros posibles tratamientos pueden incluir cirugía y otros procedimientos médicos. Las personas con hepatitis alcohólica deben dejar el alcohol. Si su hepatitis crónica provoca insuficiencia hepática o cáncer de hígado, es posible que necesite un trasplante de hígado . ¿Se puede prevenir la hepatitis? Hay diferentes formas de prevenir o reducir el riesgo de hepatitis, según el tipo de afección. Por ejemplo, no beber demasiado alcohol puede prevenir la hepatitis alcohólica. Existen vacunas para prevenir la hepatitis A y B. La hepatitis autoinmune no se puede prevenir. NIH: Instituto Nacional de la Diabetes y las Enfermedades Digestivas y Renales


What is hepatitis? Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver . Inflammation is swelling that happens when tissues of the body are injured or infected. It can damage your liver. This swelling and damage can affect how well your liver functions. What is hepatitis A? Hepatitis A is a type of viral hepatitis. It causes an acute, or short-term, infection. This means that people usually get better without treatment after a few weeks. Thanks to a vaccine, hepatitis A is not very common in the United States. What causes hepatitis A? Hepatitis A is caused by the hepatitis A virus. The virus spreads through contact with an infected person's stool. This can happen if you: Eat food made by someone who has the virus and did not properly wash their hands after using the bathroom Drink contaminated water or eat foods that were rinsed with contaminated water Have close personal contact with someone who has hepatitis A. This could be through certain types of sex (like oral-anal sex), taking care of someone who is ill, or using illegal drugs with others. Who is at risk for hepatitis A? Although anyone can get hepatitis A, you are at higher risk if you: Travel to developing countries Have sex with someone who has hepatitis A Are a man who has sex with men Use illegal drugs Are experiencing homelessness Live with or care for someone who has hepatitis A Live with or care for a child recently adopted from a country where hepatitis A is common What are the symptoms of hepatitis A? Not everyone with hepatitis A has symptoms. Adults are more likely to have symptoms than children. If you do have symptoms, they usually start 2 to 7 weeks after infection. They can include: Dark yellow urine Diarrhea Fatigue Fever Gray-


A is common What are the symptoms of hepatitis A? Not everyone with hepatitis A has symptoms. Adults are more likely to have symptoms than children. If you do have symptoms, they usually start 2 to 7 weeks after infection. They can include: Dark yellow urine Diarrhea Fatigue Fever Gray- or clay-colored stools Joint pain Loss of appetite Nausea and/or vomiting Abdominal pain Yellowish eyes and skin, called jaundice The symptoms usually last less than 2 months, although some people can be ill for as long as 6 months. You are at a higher risk of getting a more severe infection from hepatitis A if you also have HIV , hepatitis B , or hepatitis C . What other problems can hepatitis A cause? In rare cases, hepatitis A may lead to liver failure. This is more common in adults over age 50 and in people who have another liver . How is hepatitis A diagnosed? To diagnose hepatitis A, your health care provider may use many tools: A medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms A physical exam Blood tests, including tests for viral hepatitis What are the treatments for hepatitis A? There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. The best way to recover is to rest, drink plenty of liquids, and eat healthy foods. Your provider may also suggest medicines to help relieve symptoms. In more severe cases, you may need care in a hospital. Can hepatitis A be prevented? The best way to prevent hepatitis A is to get the hepatitis A vaccine. It is also important to have good hygiene , especially washing your hands thoroughly after you go to the bathroom. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases


¿Qué es la hepatitis? La hepatitis es una inflamación del hígado. La inflamación es una hinchazón que ocurre cuando los tejidos del cuerpo se lesionan o infectan. Esto puede dañar a su hígado. La hinchazón y daño puede afectar el buen funcionamiento de su hígado. ¿Qué es la hepatitis A? La hepatitis A es un tipo de hepatitis viral. Provoca una infección aguda, o de corta duración. En general, esto significa que las personas mejoran sin tratamiento después de algunas semanas. Gracias a una vacuna, la hepatitis A no es muy común en los Estados Unidos. ¿Qué causa la hepatitis A? La hepatitis A es causada por el virus de la hepatitis A. El virus se transmite a través del contacto con las heces de una persona infectada. Esto puede suceder si: Consume alimentos elaborados por alguien que tiene el virus y no se lavó las manos bien después de ir al baño Bebe agua contaminada o come alimentos que se enjuagaron con agua contaminada Tiene contacto personal cercano con alguien que tiene hepatitis A. Esto puede ser a través de ciertos tipos de actividad sexual (como sexo oral-anal), cuidar a alguien que está enfermo o usar drogas ilegales con otras personas ¿Quién está en riesgo de contraer hepatitis A? Aunque cualquier persona puede contraer hepatitis A, usted corre un mayor riesgo si: Viaja a países en desarrollo Tiene relaciones sexuales con alguien con hepatitis A Es un hombre que tiene sexo con hombres Usa drogas ilegales Es una persona sin hogar (falta de vivienda) Vive con alguien que tiene hepatitis A o está a cargo de su cuidado Vive con o cuida de un niño adoptado recientemente de un país donde la hepatitis A es común ¿Cuáles son los síntomas de la hepatitis A? No todas las personas con


sin hogar (falta de vivienda) Vive con alguien que tiene hepatitis A o está a cargo de su cuidado Vive con o cuida de un niño adoptado recientemente de un país donde la hepatitis A es común ¿Cuáles son los síntomas de la hepatitis A? No todas las personas con hepatitis A presentan síntomas. Los adultos tienen más probabilidades de tener síntomas que los niños. En general, si tiene síntomas estos comienzan de 2 a 7 semanas después de la infección. Pueden incluir: Orina de color amarillo oscuro Diarrea Fatiga Fiebre Heces de color gris o arcilla Dolor en las articulaciones Pérdida del apetito Náuseas y vómitos Dolor abdominal Ojos y piel amarillentos, conocido como ictericia Los síntomas suelen durar menos de 2 meses, aunque algunas personas pueden estar enfermas hasta por 6 meses. Usted tiene un mayor riesgo de contraer una infección más grave por hepatitis A si además tiene VIH , hepatitis B o hepatitis C . ¿Qué otros problemas pueden causar la hepatitis A? En casos raros, la hepatitis A puede provocar insuficiencia hepática. Esto es más común en personas mayores de 50 años y en quienes tienen otra enfermedad del hígado . ¿Cómo se diagnostica la hepatitis A? Para diagnosticar la hepatitis A, su profesional de la salud puede usar muchas herramientas: Su historial médico, incluyendo preguntas sobre sus síntomas Un examen físico Análisis de sangre, incluyendo pruebas de hepatitis viral ¿Cuáles son los tratamientos para la hepatitis A? No existe un tratamiento específico para la hepatitis A. La mejor manera de recuperarse es descansar, beber muchos líquidos y consumir alimentos saludables. Su proveedor también puede sugerir medicamentos para ayudar a aliviar los síntomas. En casos más graves, es posible que necesite atención en un hospital. ¿Se puede prevenir la hepatitis A? La mejor forma de


hepatitis A. La mejor manera de recuperarse es descansar, beber muchos líquidos y consumir alimentos saludables. Su proveedor también puede sugerir medicamentos para ayudar a aliviar los síntomas. En casos más graves, es posible que necesite atención en un hospital. ¿Se puede prevenir la hepatitis A? La mejor forma de prevenir la hepatitis A es vacunarse contra la hepatitis A. También es importante tener una buena higiene , especialmente lavarse bien las manos después de ir al baño. NIH: Instituto Nacional de la Diabetes y las Enfermedades Digestivas y Renales


What is hepatitis? Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver . Inflammation is swelling that happens when tissues of the body are injured or infected. It can damage your liver. This swelling and damage can affect how well your liver functions. What is hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is a type of viral hepatitis. It can cause an acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) infection. People with an acute infection usually get better on their own without treatment. Some people with chronic hepatitis B will need treatment. Thanks to a vaccine, hepatitis B is not very common in the United States. It is more common in certain parts of the world, such as sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia. What causes hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus spreads through contact with blood, semen, or other body fluids from a person who has the virus. Who is at risk for hepatitis B? Anyone can get hepatitis B, but the risk is higher in: Infants born to mothers who have hepatitis B People who inject drugs or share needles, syringes, and other types of drug equipment Sex partners of people with hepatitis B, especially if they are not using latex or polyurethane condoms during sex Men who have sex with men People who live with someone who has hepatitis B, especially if they use the same razor, toothbrush, or nail clippers Health care and public-safety workers who are exposed to blood on the job Hemodialysis patients People who have lived in or traveled often to parts of the world where hepatitis B is common People who have diabetes , hepatitis C , or HIV What are the symptoms of hepatitis B? Often, people with hepatitis B don't have symptoms. Adults and children over 5 are more likely to


have lived in or traveled often to parts of the world where hepatitis B is common People who have diabetes , hepatitis C , or HIV What are the symptoms of hepatitis B? Often, people with hepatitis B don't have symptoms. Adults and children over 5 are more likely to have symptoms than younger children. Some people with acute hepatitis B have symptoms 2 to 5 months after infection. These symptoms can include: Dark yellow urine Diarrhea Fatigue Fever Gray- or clay-colored stools Joint pain Loss of appetite Nausea and/or vomiting Abdominal pain Yellowish eyes and skin, called jaundice If you have chronic hepatitis B, you may not have symptoms until complications develop. This could be decades after you were infected. For this reason, hepatitis B screening is important, even if you have no symptoms. Screening means that you are tested for a disease even though you don't have symptoms. If you are at high risk, your health care provider may suggest screening. What other problems can hepatitis B cause? In rare cases, acute hepatitis B can cause liver failure. Chronic hepatitis B can develop into a serious disease that causes long-term health problems such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver cancer , and liver failure. If you have ever had hepatitis B, the virus may become active again, or reactivated, later in life. This could start to damage the liver and cause symptoms. How is hepatitis B diagnosed? To diagnose hepatitis B, your health care provider may use many tools to make a diagnosis: A medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms A physical exam Blood tests, including tests for viral hepatitis What are the treatments for hepatitis B? If you have acute hepatitis B, you probably don't need treatment. Some people with chronic hepatitis B don't


many tools to make a diagnosis: A medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms A physical exam Blood tests, including tests for viral hepatitis What are the treatments for hepatitis B? If you have acute hepatitis B, you probably don't need treatment. Some people with chronic hepatitis B don't need treatment. But if you have a chronic infection and blood tests show that hepatitis B could be damaging your liver, you may need to take antiviral medicines. Can hepatitis B be prevented? The best way to prevent hepatitis B is to get the hepatitis B vaccine. You can also reduce your chance of hepatitis B infection by: Not sharing drug needles or other drug materials Wearing gloves if you have to touch another person's blood or open sores Making sure your tattoo artist or body piercer uses sterile tools Not sharing personal items, such as toothbrushes, razors, or nail clippers Using a latex condom during sex. If your or your partner is allergic to latex , you can use polyurethane condoms. If you think you have been in contact with the hepatitis B virus, see your health care provider right away. Your provider may give you a dose of the hepatitis B vaccine to prevent infection. In some cases, your provider may also give you a medicine called hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG). You need to get the vaccine and the HBIG (if needed) as soon as possible after coming into contact with the virus. It is best if you can get them within 24 hours. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases