Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common type of heart disease in the United States. More than 650,000 Americans have a heart attack due to CHD each year. And unfortunately, about one in every five deaths from heart disease is due to CHD. And as shocking as these numbers may be, they don’t reflect the true impact of CHD. Not all heart attacks and other forms of CHD end in death. Many people live with this condition, which can significantly reduce their quality of life. So to help you understand what CHD is and how it can affect your health, this article includes a comprehensive guide to this condition.
What Is Coronary Heart Disease?
Coronary heart disease is an affliction that affects the vessels which carry blood to the heart muscle. These vessels, called coronary arteries, are responsible for supplying the heart with oxygen-rich blood. A blockage in one or more of these arteries impedes the flow of this essential nutrient and can lead to chest pain (angina) or even a heart attack.
Plaque can cause narrowing and hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis). This condition is usually caused by a buildup of fatty deposits called plaque on the inner walls of these arteries. It is also possible for plaque to rupture and form a clot, which can completely block the artery.
Risk Factors for CHD
Several risk factors can increase your chances of developing CHD. Some are preventable; however, genetics can also play a role. The most common risk factors include:
- Smoking – When you regularly smoke or use other tobacco products, the toxins in them can damage your arteries and increase plaque buildup.
- High Blood Pressure – High blood pressure damages your artery walls and increases the risk of narrowing and blockage from plaque.
- High Cholesterol – Too much cholesterol in your bloodstream can cause a buildup of fatty deposits on the inner walls of your arteries.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure) – Hypertension can increase strain on your heart, leading to a higher risk of CHD.
- Diabetes – Diabetes affects how your body uses sugar and can lead to high triglyceride and cholesterol levels, which contribute to plaque buildup.
- Obesity – Excess weight increases the burden on your heart and can lead to fatty deposits forming in your arteries.
- A Sedentary Lifestyle – Regular exercise helps keep your body healthy and reduces the risk of CHD.
- Age – As you age, your risk of developing CHD increases due to the natural aging process.
- Family History – If someone in your family has been diagnosed with CHD, you may be at a higher risk.
Symptoms Of CHD
Chest Pain Or Angina
Chest pain or angina is one of the most common symptoms of coronary heart disease. It typically occurs on the left side of the chest and may spread to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaws, or back. This sensation of chest pain can vary and be experienced as discomfort, pressure, heaviness, tightness, or a burning sensation.
Angina episodes are often triggered by physical activities such as running or climbing stairs that require extra effort from the heart. For this reason, it’s essential to listen to your body if you experience chest pain and discuss it with your doctor.
Shortness Of Breath
Shortness of breath is another common symptom of coronary heart disease. It can be experienced anywhere from rarely to constantly, depending on the severity of damage to the heart and lungs. In some cases, shortness of breath may signify that the disease has progressed significantly, and patients should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
However, it is also important to note that sometimes it can result from overexertion or mild congestion. Still, experiencing any unusual signs or symptoms should prompt a person to reach out to their doctor for clarification and further evaluation.