Dr Ramji Mehrotra | Best Cardiovascular Surgeon & Heart Specialist Doctor in India

  Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals that play a crucial role in various physiological processes within the body. Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate, and bicarbonate are the primary electrolytes. Proper balance of these electrolytes is essential for maintaining the normal functioning of cells, tissues, and organs, including the heart. Electrolyte imbalances can affect the heart and contribute to heart-related issues. Here's how some electrolytes are specifically related to heart health: Potassium: Role in the heart: Potassium is essential for maintaining the electrical activity of the heart. It helps regulate the heartbeat (rhythm) and ensures proper contraction of the heart muscle. Imbalance effects: Both high and low levels of potassium (hyperkalemia and hypokalemia) can lead to abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Sodium: Role in the heart: Sodium is involved in maintaining the ba

  Hypertensive heart disease, often referred to as hypertensive cardiomyopathy, is a medical condition characterized by heart damage that is primarily caused by long-term, uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension). When the heart has to work harder due to elevated blood pressure, it can lead to various complications and structural changes within the heart. One of the primary consequences of hypertensive heart disease is the thickening of the heart's muscular walls, a condition known as left ventricular hypertrophy. Leading heart surgeon Dr. Ramji Mehrotra says that this thickening is the heart's way of adapting to the increased workload imposed by high blood pressure. Over time, however, it can lead to a reduced ability of the heart to pump blood effectively, resulting in a decrease in cardiac output and potentially leading to heart failure. Hypertensive heart disease can also damage the coronary arteries, which supply the heart muscle with oxygen and nutrients. This

  Pericarditis, an inflammatory condition affecting the pericardium - the thin sac-like membrane surrounding the heart, can be a source of acute chest pain and discomfort. While it is often idiopathic or without a known cause, pericarditis can also be triggered by various factors. Understanding these underlying causes is essential for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and prevention of recurrence. Ø   Viral Infections: One of the primary causes of pericarditis is viral infections, particularly those caused by the coxsackievirus and echovirus. These viruses can directly invade the pericardium, triggering an inflammatory response. The immune system's reaction to the viral presence can lead to the release of inflammatory chemicals, causing the pericardium to become irritated and inflamed. Ø   Bacterial Infections: While less common, bacterial infections can also result in pericarditis. Bacteria such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis can in