Recognizing the Warning Signs: Key Symptoms of Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque—a condition called atherosclerosis. Early recognition of symptoms can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications such as heart attack.

Understanding the signs of coronary heart disease is crucial for timely medical intervention. While some people may not experience symptoms in the early stages, others may notice warning signals that should never be ignored.

Common Symptoms of Coronary Heart Disease

1. Chest Pain (Angina)

   • The most typical symptom of CHD is chest discomfort or pain, medically referred to as angina.
   • It often feels like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness in the chest.
   • The pain may radiate to the shoulders, arms (especially the left arm), neck, jaw, or back.
   • Angina usually occurs during physical exertion or emotional stress and typically subsides with rest.

2. Shortness of Breath

   • When the heart can't pump efficiently due to reduced blood flow, you may experience breathlessness, especially during activity.
   • In advanced cases, shortness of breath can even occur at rest.

3. Fatigue

   • Unexplained and persistent fatigue, particularly in women, can be a subtle sign of heart problems.
   • The heart’s reduced ability to supply oxygen-rich blood to the body leads to a general feeling of weakness and low energy.

4. Heart Palpitations

   • Irregular heartbeats, fluttering, or a sensation of the heart racing may indicate underlying heart issues.
   • These occur when the heart struggles to maintain a regular rhythm due to poor blood supply.

5. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

   • Reduced blood flow to the brain can cause dizziness or fainting spells.
   • This symptom should always be taken seriously, especially when combined with chest pain or breathlessness.

6. Nausea, Sweating, and Indigestion

   • Some people, particularly women, may experience atypical symptoms such as nausea, cold sweats, indigestion, or upper abdominal discomfort.
   • These symptoms are sometimes mistaken for gastrointestinal issues, delaying diagnosis.

Silent Coronary Heart Disease

It's important to note that some individuals—especially those with diabetes—may have "silent" CHD, meaning they experience little to no symptoms until a major cardiac event occurs. This underscores the importance of regular health screenings for people with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, family history of heart disease, or a sedentary lifestyle.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you or someone else experiences chest pain lasting more than a few minutes, especially if it spreads to other parts of the body, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea, seek emergency medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a heart attack, and prompt treatment is critical.

Prevention and Early Detection

Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent or slow the progression of coronary heart disease. Key steps include:

• Eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats, salt, and added sugars
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress
• Regularly monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels

Routine check-ups with a healthcare provider can help detect early warning signs and reduce the risk of complications.

Final Thoughts

Coronary heart disease doesn’t always announce itself with dramatic symptoms. Being aware of the warning signs—and listening to your body—can make all the difference. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you maintain heart health and live a longer, more active life.

Don’t ignore the signals your body sends. Your heart is working hard for you—make sure you’re doing everything you can to protect it.