The Basics

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood throughout your body. It is positioned behind the lungs, slightly to the left side of the chest. Your heart is a bit larger than the size of your fist. Let's examine the structures of the heart and learn how blood travels through this complex organ.

Your heart is the muscular powerhouse that beats day and night to pump blood through your body. Let's take a moment to learn more about this vital organ.

Your heart is your body's engine. Keeping it healthy allows you to maintain a good quality of life. Let's look at some ways you can do this naturally.

Watch this video to learn what an Automated External Defibrillator or AED is, how it works, and when it should be used to help save a life.

Watch this to know what an external defibrillator is and how it is used as a life-saving medical device.

CPR is a life-saving skill that can be performed with the power of your hands.

Watch this to learn what Septal Myectomy means.

As a caregiver, you have a higher risk for health and emotional problems. That's because caregivers are less likely to attend to their own health by eating a healthy diet, getting physical activity and treating physical and emotional problems. It may feel like your first responsibility is to your loved one, but it's really to yourself. Learn to organize your duties as a caregiver. Find the time to take care of your own health. It will help you do a better job for your loved one. © AHA

As a caregiver, you have to communicate with many people: your loved one, family, friends, co-workers, healthcare providers and insurance companies. Effective communication is key to your success. © AHA

Caring for someone you love after a heart or stroke can be hard. The responsibilities and the emotional stress can cause you to forget to take care of yourself. These rights will help you remember that you have a right to health and happiness, even when you're caring for someone else. They'll help you realize that the emotions and pressures you may be feeling are normal. © AHA

Caregiver burnout is caused by long-term stress that can affect your physical, emotional and mental well-being. You become overwhelmed trying to meet the constant demands of your caregiving role. It can have a negative effect on how you care for yourself and your loved one. Your health and well-being benefit your loved one just as they benefit you. Learn the signs of caregiver burnout and seek help if you're having them. © AHA

As a caregiver to someone who has had a stroke, it is common to go through a number of emotions. In the beginning the main effort needs to be put into engaging the survivor in rehabilitation and making a big effort there. That push is one that will make a difference in the future. © AHA

Health reporter John Hammarley summarizes communication tips to help you prepare for your next visit to the doctor.

A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in care of the heart and blood vessels. They treat a wide range of conditions. They also help you lower your risk for disease.