Coronary Heart Disease Symptoms: What You Need to Know

Coronary heart disease (CHD) can manifest in a variety of ways, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. The most common and recognizable symptom is chest discomfort, often described as a feeling of tightness, pressure, or pain in the center of the chest. This type of discomfort typically lasts for about 2 to 3 minutes and may subside on its own or with the use of prescribed medications. However, if the symptom is caused by a heart attack, the discomfort may persist for more than 15 to 20 minutes and may not respond to rest or medication. In such cases, individuals may also experience shortness of breath, intense chest pressure, or even severe pain that radiates to other parts of the body.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

If symptoms are severe or prolonged, it is critical to seek emergency medical care immediately. Heart attacks require rapid diagnosis and treatment, which can often be initiated at a hospital's chest pain center. A simple electrocardiogram (ECG) can help determine whether the symptoms are due to a heart attack, allowing for timely and appropriate intervention.

Less Common Signs of Coronary Heart Disease

Atypical Symptoms That Shouldn't Be Ignored

While chest pain is the most recognized symptom, some individuals may experience less typical signs such as headaches, jaw pain, nausea, vomiting, or upper abdominal discomfort. These symptoms can be misleading, but they often indicate widespread atherosclerosis — a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries throughout the body, including those supplying blood to the heart muscle.

When arteries become narrowed or blocked due to atherosclerosis, it can lead to reduced blood flow to the heart, causing ischemia and triggering a range of symptoms. These atypical presentations are especially common in women and individuals with diabetes, who may not experience classic chest pain during a cardiac event.

How Coronary Heart Disease Is Diagnosed

To accurately diagnose coronary heart disease, doctors use a combination of tests and imaging tools. These include the standard electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA), and, in some cases, invasive coronary angiography. These diagnostic methods help identify not only the presence of CHD but also its specific type, such as stable angina, heart attack (myocardial infarction), silent ischemia, ischemic cardiomyopathy, or the most dangerous form — sudden cardiac death.