Structural heart disease encompasses a range of heart conditions that arise from abnormalities in the heart's structure. These abnormalities can affect the heart's valves, walls, chambers, and blood vessels connected to the heart. Unlike other forms of heart diseases such as coronary artery disease, structural heart disease is often congenital, meaning individuals can be born with these conditions. However, they can also develop later in life due to factors like aging or other medical conditions.
It is crucial to understand the different facets of structural heart disease to manage and treat it effectively. Modern medicine has made it possible to address many of these abnormalities with advanced surgical techniques and medical therapies, thereby improving the quality of life for affected individuals.