Heart

What is the heart?

The heart is a muscular organ and is about the size of a clenched fist. It is located slightly to the left of the chest behind the breastbone. The heart consists of four chambers – two atria and two ventricles, which pump blood to the lungs and then out into the body. The heart works around the clock and is controlled by electrical signals that cause the heart muscle to contract in a regular pattern.

Anatomy of the heart

The four main parts of the heart are the right atrium, right ventricle, left atrium and left ventricle. There are also four valves that control blood flow in the right direction – these are called the tricuspid valve, the pulmonary valve, the mitral valve and the aortic valve.

How the heart pumps blood

The heart works like two pumps. The right side pumps oxygen-poor blood to the lungs, where the blood is oxygenated. The left side then pumps the oxygen-rich blood out to the rest of the body via the aorta.

Electrical signals and heart rhythm

The heart's rhythm is controlled by the sinus node, a natural pacemaker that sends electrical signals. These signals cause the heart muscle to contract and create the pulse we feel.

The heart's role in blood pressure

When the heart pumps blood, pressure is created in the blood vessels – blood pressure. This is crucial for oxygen and nutrients to reach the body's cells. High blood pressure can strain the heart and cause damage over time.

Common heart diseases and conditions

The heart can be affected by several different diseases and conditions. A heart attack is an acute disruption of blood flow to the heart. Heart failure means that the heart is unable to pump adequately. Atrial fibrillation is a common rhythm disorder that increases the risk of stroke. Vasospasm causes chest pain during exertion. Valves can affect blood flow and require surgery. Congenital heart defects also occur, especially in children.

Examinations and diagnoses

Several methods are used to assess the function of the heart. EKG (electrocardiogram) measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect rhythm disorders. Ultrasound of the heart (echocardiography) shows the structure and pumping function of the heart. Exercise tests test the heart's capacity during physical exertion. Blood tests such as troponin are used to detect heart attacks. Cardiac catheterization may be done to see the status of the coronary arteries.

The heart and lifestyle

Physical activity, a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and stress management are important for heart health. A healthy lifestyle reduces the risk of heart diseases such as heart attack and heart failure.

CT heart and coronary artery examinations

Computed tomography of the heart (CT heart) is a modern imaging method used to examine the coronary arteries of the heart and detect early signs of atherosclerosis. Using advanced X-ray technology, doctors can obtain detailed images of the coronary arteries and assess whether there are narrowings or calcium deposits that can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

A common examination is CT heart with calcium score. This method measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries, which is a sign of atherosclerosis. The result is presented as a so-called calcium score and can provide an estimate of the risk of future cardiovascular disease, especially in people with risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure or a family history of heart disease.

A more advanced examination is CT heart angio (coronary CT angiography). This examination makes it possible to visualize the coronary arteries themselves and detect any narrowing or plaque in the vessel walls. CT angiography is often used when you want to get a more detailed picture of the blood flow in the coronary arteries and can in many cases replace more invasive examinations.

These examinations are non-invasive and are performed without the need to insert any instruments into the blood vessels. CT heart can therefore be a valuable complement in the investigation of chest pain or to assess the risk of heart attack in people with risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Relevant symptoms

• Chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath with exertion or at rest
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Dizziness or fainting
• Fatigue or weakness
• Swelling in the legs or feet

Related conditions and diagnoses

• Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
• Heart failure
• Atrial fibrillation
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Vascular spasm(angina pectoris)
• Valvular heart disease