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Diseases :: Common Diseases :: Cardiovascular Disease

CORONARY HEART DISEASE

Coronary heart disease (CHD) or coronary artery disease is the narrowing of the small blood vessels (coronary arteries) that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. Coronary disease usually results from the build up of fatty material and plaque (atherosclerosis). As the coronary arteries narrow, the flow of blood to the heart can slow or stop. This results in chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, heart attack, or other symptoms.

Causes

CHD can run in the family. It might develop as one gets older or if one is overweight, has high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes. Unhealthy habits, like smoking, eating a diet high in fat and not exercising enough, can also cause CHD.

Risk factors for CHD include the following

Family history of coronary heart disease (especially before age 50)
Male gender
Age (65 and greater)
Tobacco smoking
High blood pressure
Diabetes
High cholesterol levels (specifically high LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol)
Lack of physical activity or exercise
Obesity
High blood homocysteine levels
Menopause in women

Symptoms

The symptoms associated with coronary heart disease may be pronounced, but it can also be present without any noticeable symptoms.

Chest pain (angina) - This is the most common symptom, and it results from the heart not getting enough blood or oxygen. The intensity of the pain varies from person to person.

Chest pain may be typical or atypical.

Typical chest pain is felt under the sternum (breast bone) and is characterized by a heavy or squeezing feeling. It is precipitated by exertion or emotion, and it is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin.
Atypical chest pain can be located in the left chest, abdomen, back, or arm and is fleeting or sharp. Atypical chest pain is more common in women.

Other symptoms includes
(Shortness of breath) - If the heart is not pumping enough blood to circulate in the body, shortness of breath may be accompanied by swollen feet and ankles.