How are CHD and angina connected?
Moderate to severe pressure or tightness in the chest, as though a heavy weight were pressing down, may be angina, a common symptom of CHD. The pain usually accompanies emotional stress or physical exertion, and usually goes away after a few minutes. In some cases, pain is sharp and felt elsewhere, such as the neck, arm or back. Stable angina follows predictable patterns and is treated with medication, such as a nitroglycerin tablet dissolved under the tongue. Unstable angina, particularly with a quick onset, usually indicates a more serious case of CHD.
Does CHD have symptoms other than angina?
Some CHD patients have no symptoms at all. This is called silent CHD, for obvious reasons. Until arrhythmia, angina or heart attack occur, there may be no indication of any compromise to heart health. Those who have risk factors contributing to CHD may wish to monitor their hearts under the care of Dr. Meshkov and his team. Shortness of breath may arise from CHD. Since the heart can’t supply enough blood to the rest of the body, the feeling of being out of breath arises, as the body calls for more oxygen. This may be accompanied by excessive fatigue with minimal exertion. When a coronary artery becomes completely blocked, a heart attack occurs. It’s possible that heart attack is the first symptom of CHD, so if you carry any of the risk factors, see Dr. Meshkov for a complete evaluation.
What are the risk factors for CHD?
Common risk factors for CHD include:
Age and gender – men have greater risk, but both sexes are vulnerable as they age
- Tobacco use – significantly increases heart disease risk
- High blood cholesterol and blood pressure
- Diabetes – many of the risk factors for Type 2 diabetes are common with CHD
- Excess weight and low physical activity – each aggravates other risk factors
- Stress – on its own and in combination with other factors, unchecked stress may damage arteries
- Family history – close relatives with heart disease indicate increased risk for others in the family
