Coronary Heart Disease
Also known as: CHD, Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) or Ischemic Heart Disease
Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), is a condition characterised by the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. CHD occurs when fatty deposits, called plaques, build up inside the coronary arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart. Over time, this can lead to various complications, including chest pain (angina), heart attack (myocardial infarction), and heart failure.
What are the symptoms of Coronary Heart Disease?
The symptoms of coronary heart disease can vary depending on the severity and location of the blockages in the coronary arteries. Common symptoms may include:
Chest pain or discomfort (angina), which may feel like pressure, squeezing, heaviness, or tightness in the chest. Angina may also radiate to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back.
Shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion or when lying down.
Fatigue or weakness.
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
Nausea or vomiting.
Sweating.
Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias).
How is Coronary Heart Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis of coronary heart disease typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, which may include:
Echocardiogram:
This non-invasive ultrasound test uses sound waves to create images of the heart's structure and function, helping healthcare providers assess the heart's pumping ability and detect any abnormalities.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG):
This non-invasive test records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect abnormalities suggestive of heart disease.
Stress Test:
This test evaluates how the heart responds to physical exertion or stress, typically by walking on a treadmill or using medication to simulate exercise when physical exertion is not possible.
Coronary Angiography:
This invasive procedure involves injecting a contrast dye into the coronary arteries and taking X-ray images (angiograms) to visualise any blockages or narrowing in the arteries.
Cardiac Catheterisation:
During this invasive procedure, a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the coronary arteries to measure blood pressure, obtain blood samples, and assess blood flow.
How is Coronary Heart Disease treated?
Treatment for coronary heart disease aims to relieve symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall heart health. Treatment options may include:
Medications:
Medications may be prescribed to relieve symptoms, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, prevent blood clots, and reduce the workload on the heart.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, adopting a heart-healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress can help reduce the risk of progression of coronary heart disease.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)
Also known as coronary angioplasty or stenting, this minimally invasive procedure involves widening narrowed or blocked coronary arteries using a balloon catheter and implanting a stent to keep the artery open.
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
This surgical procedure involves creating new pathways for blood flow to bypass blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, typically using blood vessels harvested from other parts of the body.
Cardiac Rehabilitation:
This structured program combines exercise training, education, and counselling to help individuals with coronary heart disease improve their cardiovascular health, reduce symptoms, and regain strength and confidence.
Early detection, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate management of risk factors are essential for preventing or managing coronary heart disease and reducing the risk of complications such as heart attack, heart failure, or sudden cardiac death. Individuals with coronary heart disease should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalised treatment plan based on their specific needs and risk factors. Regular follow-up appointments and monitoring are important for assessing treatment effectiveness and adjusting the treatment plan as needed.
Keeping your heart healthy is our utmost priority.
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