In recent years, the number of news reports about sudden cardiovascular events like heart attacks leading to death has increased. Currently, there are many patients with cardiovascular diseases, with coronary heart disease (CHD) being a prominent example. CHD, formally known as “coronary artery atherosclerotic heart disease,” is caused by atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries, leading to narrowing or blockage of the blood vessels. This results in myocardial ischemia, hypoxia, or necrosis, making acute attacks extremely dangerous.
1. Chest Tightness
Chest tightness and shortness of breath are typical symptoms of CHD. These occur because the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries affects the supply of blood and oxygen, leading to myocardial ischemia and hypoxia, which cause chest tightness. Some people may feel a choking sensation, and these symptoms become more pronounced during physical activity or exercise when the body’s oxygen demand increases.
2. Chest Pain
Patients often describe chest pain as a sharp, cutting pain or a heavy pressure on the chest. The pain is usually on the left side and can radiate to the left shoulder, left arm, and the inner side of the forearm, reaching the little finger and ring finger. It can also present as toothache or stomachache. The pain typically lasts between 1 to 15 minutes.
3. Palpitations
If you occasionally experience palpitations during stressful situations or after intense exercise, it is usually not a major concern. However, frequent palpitations should not be ignored as they can be a warning sign of CHD. Many CHD patients experience palpitations, such as feeling their heart skip a beat or suddenly experiencing a rapid, irregular heartbeat.