The Signs and Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

Did you know that over 6,000,000 Americans have heart disease?

One of the reasons why so many have heart disease is because they suffer from coronary artery disease. This is a type of heart disease where your coronary arteries, the arteries that supply blood to the heart, have become narrowed.

If you believe you may have coronary artery disease, you should take the time to educate yourself on the signs and symptoms. Doing so will help you see if you are suffering from coronary artery disease.

When looking for signs and symptoms, you want to look for anything abnormal in your chest. Are you short of breath? Do you need to take nitrates or beta blockers?

What other signs and symptoms of coronary artery disease are there? Find out today by exploring this guide!

Signs and Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

There are several symptoms of coronary artery disease and can be easily confused with other conditions. So it’s important to have a clear understanding of what they mean.

Angina

Angina is often referred to as the chest pain symptom because it can cause sudden chest pain that lasts for several minutes or longer. The key to managing angina is identifying and treating the underlying cause as soon as possible. This means ruling out other conditions that may be causing the pain, including heart disease, high blood pressure, or arthritis.

See your doctor if you experience angina and don’t know anything about managing risk of heart disease. They might prescribe medication or refer you to a heart specialist if angina isn’t clearing up on its own.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD) and can lead to a variety of problems such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, and even death. However, other symptoms may also be associated with shortness of breath, including chest pain and coughing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Pain or Discomfort in Left Arm or Shoulder

Pain or discomfort in the arms or shoulder can be a common symptom of coronary artery disease. This pain can vary from person to person. Some people may experience only mild pain, while others may feel extreme pain. Other causes of arm pain include arthritis, rotator cuff tear, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

The Bottom Line

Coronary artery disease is a serious medical condition that can be caused by a variety of things, such as cholesterol levels high enough to create a risk for heart disease, smoking, or drinking too much alcohol. If left untreated, coronary artery disease can lead to many problems, including stroke and death. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of coronary artery disease, it is important to get help.

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