Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), is a condition in which the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become hardened and narrowed due to the buildup of cholesterol and other substances, known as plaque. This can reduce blood flow to the heart, leading to symptoms like chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or, in more severe cases, a heart attack.

Here are the key aspects of coronary heart disease:

  1. Causes and Risk Factors: The primary cause of CHD is atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaques in the coronary arteries. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and family history of heart disease.

  2. Symptoms: Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort (often described as a feeling of pressure or squeezing), shortness of breath, pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen, or back. However, some people may not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages.

  3. Diagnosis: CHD is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exams, and various tests. These tests can include electrocardiograms (ECG), echocardiograms, stress tests, cardiac catheterization, and coronary angiograms.

  4. Treatment: Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and reducing future risks. This includes lifestyle changes (like diet, exercise, and quitting smoking), medications (such as statins, beta-blockers, or aspirin), and in some cases, surgical procedures like angioplasty (where a small balloon is inflated inside the artery to widen it) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

  5. Prevention: Preventative measures include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, and managing risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol.

  6. Prognosis: The prognosis of CHD depends on various factors, including the extent of disease, the presence of symptoms, and how well risk factors are managed. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many people with CHD can lead a normal and active life.

Understanding and managing risk factors is crucial in the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease. Regular check-ups and discussions with a healthcare provider are essential for those at risk.