Coronary Artery Disease (Ischemic Heart Disease) Symptoms, Causes, Problems, And Treatments

Below, you’ll find must-know information about coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery disease (also known as ischemic heart disease) occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle get constricted or obstructed because of the accumulation of plaque within the artery walls.

As a result of this, the blood flow toward the heart can be diminished. It then causes a surge in the likelihood of a heart attack, heart failure, or other related complexities.

The plaque is formed by the amalgamation of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other materials that tend to accrue in the arteries gradually, primarily due to detrimental habits like smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a sedentary lifestyle.

As the plaque builds up, it can narrow the artery and reduce blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

The most prevalent origin of coronary artery disease is atherosclerosis, a gradual process in which plaque gradually builds up inside the artery walls. This eventually leads to their constriction and blockage.

Numerous factors, such as an unhealthy lifestyle, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, diabetes, genetics, and age, can have a bearing on the emergence of atherosclerosis.

Failure to seek medical attention for coronary artery disease can have grave implications and can even pose a threat to one’s life. If left untreated, this condition can trigger a heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmias, stroke, aneurysm, or even fatality.

To avoid the condition from getting worse, it’s best to know the symptoms of coronary artery disease.

Below are coronary artery disease symptoms worth knowing about.

8. Chest Discomfort Or Pain

Chest discomfort or pain occurs because the coronary arteries are blocked. Hence, there’s lack of blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle.

The most common cause of coronary artery disease is the buildup of plaque inside the arteries, which is known as atherosclerosis.

Other factors that can contribute to coronary artery disease and chest discomfort or pain include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol levels, family history of heart disease, obesity or overweight, lack of physical activity, and stress or anxiety.

7. Shortness Of Breath

Another common symptom of coronary artery disease is a sense of shortness of breath. This may be attributed to the constriction or obstruction of the coronary arteries, reducing the blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscle.

As a result of inadequate oxygen, the heart may not function as efficiently, resulting in fluid accumulation in the lungs and respiratory distress.

6. Fatigue

Fatigue is a frequent symptom of coronary artery disease. In coronary artery disease, fatigue may arise from the constriction or blockage of coronary arteries.

This reduces the blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart muscle, putting extra strain on it and leading to exhaustion and weakness.

Fatigue can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life, making it challenging to perform daily tasks or engage in physical activities.

5. Heart Palpitations

Arrhythmias are one of the primary causes of heart palpitations in coronary artery disease. This is characterized by abnormal heart rhythms resulting from various reasons such as damage to the heart’s electrical system, decreased blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart muscle, and medication side effects.

In addition, stress and anxiety, physical exertion, caffeine or alcohol consumption, and electrolyte imbalances can also contribute to heart palpitations in coronary artery disease.

(continued next page)