Understanding Heart Disease: Making It A Priority
Heart disease is known by many names such as coronary heart disease (CHD),coronary artery
disease (CAD) and arterioscerlotic heart disease. Heart disease is the narrowing of the blood
vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. It is caused by a buildup of plaque in the
arteries of the heart, which is also known as hardening of the arteries. When this occurs and the
arteries get narrow, blood flow to your heart can slow down and stop. And when blood flow to
your heart is blocked it results in a heart attack.
The reason heart disease is an important condition to understand is because it is the leading
cause of death for men and women in the United States. In addition, it is a chronic health
problem that may have no noticeable symptoms in the early stages, but as it advances may result
in many symptoms as well as a heart attack.
Symptoms
There may be few if any symptoms of heart disease in the initial stages, and for some people a
heart attack is the first sign of heart disease. Symptoms of heart disease that you should be
aware of are as follows:

Chest pain or discomfort (angina) is the most common symptom, which occurs when the
heart is not getting enough oxygen or blood. How severe the pain is varies from person to
person.

It feels like someone is squeezing your heart. You may feel this sensation under your
breastbone (sternum) as well as in your arms, neck, upper back or stomach.

Usually the pain occurs with activity or emotion, and tends to go away with rest or a
medication called nitroglycerin.

Shortness of breath and fatigue when involved in activities or exertion are also common
symptoms.
Symptoms for Women, People with Diabetes and the Elderly
Women, people with diabetes and the elderly have symptoms that are not as likely to include
chest pain, they are more likely to experience the following:

General weakness

Shortness of breath

Fatigue
Diagnosis
If you have any of the symptoms of heart disease or are concerned that you may have coronary
heart disease see your doctor who can perform tests to determine if you have heart disease, and
identify the best procedures and methods to treat this condition. Heart disease affects people
differently, which means that by making lifestyle changes including stopping smoking,
maintaining a healthy diet, taking medications and getting exercise, as the doctor prescribes,
allows them to maintain a healthy life. Other people may need medical procedures including
surgery to treat coronary heart disease. It is important to remember that early detection of heart
disease usually produces the best outcomes. It is important to know if you have risk factors for
heart disease, which your doctor can determine by checking your cholesterol, blood pressure,
blood glucose and obtaining information regarding your family history of heart disease.
You should contact your doctor or health care provider, call the local emergency number (such
as 911) or go to the emergency room if you have any of the symptoms of heart disease or the
following five major symptoms of a heart attack:
1. Chest pain or discomfort
2. Pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder
3. Feeling weak, light-headed or faint
4. Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck or back
5. Shortness of breath
Should you or someone you know have any of these symptoms of a heart attack call your local
emergency number (e.g. 911). Heart attacks are serious, and according to the American Heart
Association 785,000 people in the United States have their first heart attack and 470,000
individuals have a recurrent heart attack every year.
Being aware of heart disease and its symptoms as well as discussing risk factors with your health
care provider can help in the prevention and treatment of this condition and enable you to
maintain a healthy lifestyle.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Heart Disease Signs and Symptoms." April
9, 2012.
Public Med Health. "Coronary Heart Disease." National Institute of Health. June 22, 2012.
Roger, U.L.; Go, A.S.; Lloyd-Jones, Don, et al. "Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics- 2012." A
Report from the American Heart Association. December 15, 2011.