What are the symptoms and causes of coronary heart disease?

Coronary heart disease generally refers to coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Under normal circumstances, symptoms of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease may include sleep disturbances, physical weakness, chest tightness and shortness of breath, cyanosis, angina pectoris, etc. Possible causes include genetic factors, unhealthy habits, obesity, improper diet, and age-related factors. Patients are advised to follow medical advice for symptomatic treatment. The detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Symptoms

1. Sleep disturbances

During sleep at night, patients may experience chest tightness and difficulty breathing, which can only be relieved by sitting upright or changing posture. Similarly, when lying flat during the day, sudden palpitations, pain, or difficulty breathing may occur, requiring the patient to stand up for relief. Avoid overexertion and maintain a balanced, nutritious diet.

2. Physical weakness

Patients may experience chest tightness and shortness of breath during physical activity. These symptoms typically resolve after resting for a period of time. Adequate rest and maintaining a regular daily routine are important.

3. Chest tightness and shortness of breath

The main function of the coronary arteries is to supply blood to the heart, providing fresh blood and nutrients to the myocardium. When emotional changes occur or heavy physical labor is performed, myocardial oxygen demand increases. However, due to plaque buildup causing narrowing of the coronary arteries, the myocardium cannot receive sufficient blood and oxygen, leading to ischemia and hypoxia. This results in symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. It is essential to actively control blood pressure, lipid levels, and blood glucose, maintain a regular lifestyle, and practice early bedtime and wake-up times.

4. Cyanosis

Cyanosis refers to a bluish-purple discoloration of the lips and face, which is a typical symptom of heart disease. Myocardial ischemia and hypoxia lead to insufficient blood supply to other organs and tissues, manifesting externally—particularly evident as purple lips. Avoid excessive熬夜 (staying up late), maintain mental and emotional well-being, avoid anger, fear, or strong emotional fluctuations, and quit smoking and alcohol consumption.

5. Angina pectoris

Angina is a characteristic symptom of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Pain is typically located in the middle to upper portion of the sternum and may sometimes spread to the anterior chest area. Sudden episodes of constricting or suffocating pain may occur after significant emotional fluctuations or strenuous physical exertion, with pain sometimes radiating to the left shoulder. In the early stages of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, angina may not be very typical and usually subsides within 3–5 minutes. Heavy physical labor should be avoided. Maintain a light, easily digestible diet and reduce intake of fatty, greasy, and sugary foods.

II. Causes

1. Genetic factors

A family history of heart disease is closely associated with the development of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. For familial cases, patients are advised to adopt a scientific lifestyle, make positive changes in daily habits, maintain emotional well-being, and prioritize both physical and mental health. Avoid impatience and learn to stay calm when facing difficulties.

2. Unhealthy habits

Unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can promote the development of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Patients are advised to quit smoking and drinking. Engaging in moderate-intensity aerobic exercises such as cycling, practicing tai chi, or walking can improve myocardial blood supply and enhance cardiac function.

3. Obesity

Excessive body weight significantly increases the risk of developing coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Patients should control calorie intake and body weight. Dinner should be eaten until 70–80% full, daily salt intake should not exceed 6 grams, and consumption of strong tea and coffee should be avoided.

4. Improper diet

Unhealthy eating habits such as binge eating, picky eating, and consuming high-flavor foods increase the likelihood of developing coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Patients should limit intake of high-cholesterol and high-animal-fat foods such as organ meats, fish roe, and egg yolks, and instead consume more fish, legumes, vegetables, and fruits.

5. Age factor

As age increases, the risk of arterial damage and narrowing also rises, making coronary atherosclerotic heart disease more likely. Elderly patients are advised to take medications such as isosorbide dinitrate tablets or enteric-coated aspirin capsules under medical guidance. For more severe cases, coronary artery bypass graft surgery may be recommended by a physician.

If obvious discomfort occurs, seek prompt medical attention to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.