Coronary heart disease
Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), involves the reduction of blood flow to the heart muscle due to build-up of plaque in the arteries of the heart. It is one of the main causes of death globally.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The primary cause of CHD is atherosclerosis, a process of progressive buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls. This process begins with damage or injury to the inner layer of a coronary artery, often as a result of factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or an inflammatory condition.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The most common symptom of CHD is angina, or chest pain. Angina can be described as a discomfort, heaviness, pressure, aching, burning, fullness, squeezing, or painful feeling in your chest. It can be mistaken for indigestion or heartburn. Other symptoms of CHD include shortness of breath, palpitations, weakness or dizziness, nausea, and sweating.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of CHD involves a review of the patient's medical history, a physical examination and further diagnostic tests. These tests may include electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, exercise stress test, nuclear stress test, and coronary angiogram.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for CHD usually involves lifestyle changes and if necessary, drugs and certain medical procedures. Lifestyle changes can include eating a healthier diet, getting more exercise, and quitting smoking. Medications can be used to treat CHD including cholesterol-modifying medications, aspirin, beta blockers, nitroglycerin, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs).
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention of CHD is about managing the risk factors that lead to coronary artery disease. This includes controlling high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing alcohol consumption.
See also[edit | edit source]
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