Signs & Symptoms of Coranary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease is a serious heart condition that occurs due to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This can cause the arteries to narrow, which reduces blood flow to the heart.

Considerations

• Coronary heart disease may not always exhibit symptoms. It is possible to have advanced coronary heart disease and exhibit no symptoms at all. Chest pain can occur during physical activity or strong emotion (typical chest pain) or when no activity takes place (atypical chest pain).

Types

• The types of symptoms associated with coronary heart disease can include shortness of breath and chest pain. You may also experience pain or numbness in your arms or legs and unusual fatigue after exertion.

Time Frame

• Symptoms may occur weeks, or even months before a major cardiac event may occur. In some cases, they may disappear for a time and then return.

Effects

• If left untreated, the symptoms can lead to a major cardiac event, such as a heart attack. See a doctor if any of these symptoms occur.

Significance

• People who experience typical chest pain are more likely to get coronary heart disease than those who suffer atypical chest pain.