Common Symptoms of Coronary Heart Disease
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Man
Introduction
The primary cause of coronary heart disease is coronary artery atherosclerosis, leading to narrowing of the coronary arterial lumen. This results in inadequate blood supply through the left anterior descending artery, circumflex artery, and right coronary artery, causing myocardial hypoxia. Patients commonly experience symptoms such as chest tightness, palpitations, chest pain or a sensation of suffocation, and dyspnea. In general, coronary angiography is required for definitive diagnosis.
People frequently encounter various heart conditions in daily life; however, among older adults, coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common. Once it develops, CAD can cause significant damage to the heart—particularly during acute episodes—which may also impair the patient’s quality of life. While some individuals require medication for treatment, it is important to note that dietary interventions can play a valuable role both in managing and preventing CAD. So, what are the common symptoms of coronary artery disease?
Common Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease
The primary underlying cause of CAD is coronary artery atherosclerosis, which leads to narrowing of the coronary arterial lumen. This narrowing compromises blood supply via the left anterior descending artery, circumflex artery, and right coronary artery, resulting in myocardial ischemia and hypoxia. Patients commonly experience chest tightness, palpitations, chest pain or a sensation of suffocation, and dyspnea. Typically, coronary angiography is required to establish a definitive diagnosis. Additionally, electrocardiography (ECG) can help assess both the severity and location of myocardial ischemia. Concurrently, patients must undergo long-term oral therapy—under physician supervision—with anticoagulants (e.g., aspirin), lipid-lowering agents (e.g., atorvastatin), and medications aimed at stabilizing atherosclerotic plaques.
The most common symptoms of CAD include chest tightness, palpitations, and shortness of breath—clinically referred to as angina pectoris. Angina arises from coronary artery spasm superimposed on pre-existing atherosclerosis, causing transient reduction or interruption of coronary blood flow and subsequent myocardial ischemia and hypoxia. It typically manifests as a constricting or pressure-like discomfort localized to the precordium or retrosternal region. Reduced coronary perfusion due to CAD leads to myocardial ischemia and hypoxia, triggering tachycardia and increased myocardial oxygen demand—hence the sensation of palpitations.
Patients are advised to maintain healthy lifestyle habits—including smoking cessation, alcohol abstinence, and regular outdoor physical activity—to promote overall physical and mental well-being. We hope this information proves helpful.
