Understanding Coronary Heart Disease

What is Coronary Heart Disease?

Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as coronary artery disease, occurs when the blood vessels supplying your heart become narrowed or blocked by fatty deposits called plaques.

Key Risk Factors

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol levels
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Family history
• Age and gender
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity

Common Symptoms

Immediate Signs

• Chest pain (angina)
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Fatigue

Emergency Warning Signs

• Severe chest pain
• Pain radiating to arms, neck, or jaw
• Sudden sweating
• Nausea and vomiting

Diagnosis

• Physical examination
• Blood tests
• ECG/EKG
• Stress tests
• Coronary angiogram
• CT scan

Treatment Options

Lifestyle Changes

• Smoking cessation
• Regular exercise
• Healthy diet
• Weight management

Medications

• Statins for cholesterol
• Blood pressure medications
• Aspirin therapy
• Beta blockers

Medical Procedures

• Angioplasty
• Stent placement
• Coronary artery bypass surgery

Prevention Strategies

1. Maintain healthy blood pressure
2. Control cholesterol levels
3. Exercise regularly
4. Eat a heart-healthy diet
5. Manage stress
6. Regular medical check-ups

Living with CHD

• Follow medication schedules
• Attend cardiac rehabilitation
• Monitor symptoms
• Join support groups
• Regular follow-up care