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Contents
  • What is Coronary Heart Disease?
  • Symptoms and Diagnosis
  • Managing Coronary Heart Disease

Is Your Heart at Risk? Understanding Coronary Heart Disease

Is Your Heart at Risk? Understanding Coronary Heart Disease

Why It Matters

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a leading cause of death, but do you know the warning signs? Learn how stress testing can help diagnose and manage CHD effectively.
Contents
  • What is Coronary Heart Disease?
  • Symptoms and Diagnosis
  • Managing Coronary Heart Disease

What is Coronary Heart Disease?

Coronary heart disease occurs when the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to the heart. This can lead to chest pain, known as angina, and may result in a heart attack if not properly managed. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Common symptoms of CHD include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, especially during physical activity. Diagnosis often involves stress testing, which helps evaluate how well your heart functions under stress. Stress tests can reveal blockages and determine the severity of the disease.
Coronary heart disease occurs when the coronary arteries are narrowed or blocked, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart. It can cause chest pain and increase the risk of heart attacks.

Managing Coronary Heart Disease

Managing CHD involves lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgical procedures. A doctor may recommend stress tests to monitor disease progression and evaluate treatment effectiveness. Regular check-ups and following a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce risk.

FAQs

What causes coronary heart disease?

It's mainly caused by blockages in the coronary arteries.

What are the symptoms of CHD?

Look out for chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

How is CHD diagnosed?

Stress testing is a key diagnostic tool for CHD.

Can lifestyle changes help manage CHD?

Yes, a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial in managing CHD.

The Bottom Line

Recognizing CHD symptoms early and seeking medical advice can save lives.
Get started on understanding your heart health with Doctronic today!
Additional References
  1. Fihn SD, Gardin JM, Abrams J, et al. 2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the diagnosis and management of patients with stable ischemic heart disease.
  2. American College of Cardiology Foundation Appropriate Use Criteria Task Force, American Society of Echocardiography, American Heart Association, et al. ACCF/ASE/AHA/ASNC/HFSA/HRS/SCAI/SCCM/SCCT/SCMR 2011 Appropriate Use Criteria for Echocardiography.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.