Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. While often thought of as one illness, heart disease is actually an umbrella term that covers a range of heart conditions. It includes diseases of the blood vessels, including coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD) and so on. Symptoms of heart disease can vary depending on which type you have and whether you are a man or a woman. For example, with a heart attack, men are more likely to experience chest pain, while women are more likely to have symptoms other than chest discomfort, like nausea, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

The causes of heart disease also vary depending on the type of disease. CAD and PAD are caused by atherosclerosis, or the buildup of cholesterol and other material called plaque in the arteries. This buildup of plaque can result in the narrowing of arteries, which makes it harder for blood to flow and can result in a heart attack or stroke.

Before a heart disease diagnosis is made, your healthcare provider will gather a full medical history and perform a physical exam. If your doctor suspects heart disease, blood tests will be ordered to check your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as look for proteins that could signal heart failure or plaque in your arteries. A chest X-ray will also help your doctor look for signs of heart failure or heart valve problems.