You asked. We answer. Here's an easy-to-read, illustrated guide to heart disease.

When you think of heart disease in men, usually people think of coronary artery disease (narrowing of the arteries leading to the heart) and heart attack. But coronary artery disease is just one of many types of heart disease.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women over 40 years old, especially after menopause. And the risk of heart disease in women continues to increase with age.

Most heart attacks are the end result of coronary heart disease, a condition that clogs coronary arteries with fatty, calcified plaques.

Atherosclerosis -- hardening of the arteries -- occurs when your blood vessel walls thicken due to deposits of fat and plaque. This narrowing or blockage of the arteries causes heart disease.

Find out the differences between atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis, and discover the signs, treatments, and how it may affect health.

Heart palpitations are a feeling that your heart is beating too hard or too fast, skipping a beat, or fluttering. Find out when they're a heart disease risk here.

Your doctor may be tracking your homocysteine level. Click here to find out why.

Your doctor may also be tracking your CRP level. Click here to find out why.

This cluster of risk factors increases the risk of heart disease. Read more and see how you can improve your heart health.