Coronary Heart Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Coronary artery disease is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases. It occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply the heart muscle with blood and oxygen, become narrowed due to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaque inside them.

This narrowing can limit blood supply to the heart, especially during physical exertion, causing symptoms such as chest pain or discomfort.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms vary from patient to patient. The most common include:

• Chest pain or pressure (angina pectoris): Usually occurs during physical exertion or intense stress.

• Shortness of breath: Especially when walking or exercising.

• Easy fatigue: Reduced endurance in daily activities.

• Referred pain: In the left or both arms, neck, jaw or back.

In some patients, particularly people with diabetes, the elderly, and women, symptoms may be less characteristic.

What are the risk factors?

The most important factors that increase the likelihood of developing coronary heart disease are:

• Arterial hypertension

• Increased cholesterol

• Smoking

• Diabetes mellitus

• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle

• Family history of premature coronary heart disease

• Increasing age

Controlling modifiable risk factors plays a crucial role in prevention.

How is the diagnosis made?

The investigation begins with taking a medical history, a clinical examination, and an assessment of cardiovascular risk.

Depending on the symptoms and findings, the cardiologist may recommend:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): To evaluate the electrical activity of the heart.

• Echocardiogram: To assess the function and structure of the heart.

• Stress test or ischemia imaging: In appropriately selected patients.

• Coronary angiography: For non-invasive imaging of the coronary arteries.

• Interventional coronary angiography: When there are specific clinical indications.

The choice of tests is individualized and not all are necessary for every patient.

How is coronary artery disease treated?

Treatment aims to reduce symptoms, prevent myocardial infarction, and improve quality of life.

It may include:

• Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, and controlling body weight.

• Medication: Depending on the patient's needs, to reduce cholesterol, regulate blood pressure, relieve angina and prevent cardiovascular events.

• Interventional treatment: Angioplasty with stent placement or surgical reperfusion (bypass), when indicated.

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When should you visit a cardiologist?

If you experience chest pain or pressure during exertion, unexplained shortness of breath, or a significant decrease in your endurance, it is important to undergo a cardiological evaluation.

Caution: If you experience new, severe or persistent chest pain, especially when accompanied by shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea or fainting, call 112 immediately. Do not wait to schedule an appointment.

The importance of prevention

Early identification of risk factors and proper cardiac monitoring can significantly contribute to reducing cardiovascular risk.

Prevention, early diagnosis and personalized treatment are key pillars of modern cardiological care.

The article is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice.