What is coronary heart disease and how to prevent it?
What is coronary heart disease (CHD)?
Coronary heart disease (CHD), also termed coronary artery disease, is a condition that damages the blood vessels that supplyoxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. It occurs when these arteries become blocked or narrowed because of the buildup of fatty deposits known as atherosclerotic plaque.
When plaque accumulates in the arteries, it restricts blood flow to the heart, causing various problems. Over the course of time, this can cause chest pain or discomfort, known as angina. In some cases, CHD can result in a heart attack if a complete blockage occurs which cuts off blood supply entirely.
Coronary heart disease symptoms :
Common Coronary heart disease symptoms include:
- Angina: Chest pain or discomfort is a classic symptom of CHD. It may feel like squeezing, pressure, fullness, or pain in the chest. It can also be felt in the neck, arms, jaw, shoulder, or back. The pain is triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress and is relieved with rest or medications.
- Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing may occur, especially during physical activity or exertion. It can be a sign that the heart is not pumping effectively.
- Fatigue:Individuals with CHD may experience unusual tiredness or fatigue, even with minimal physical activity.
- Palpitations: Irregular heartbeats or fluttering in the chest may be experienced.
- Dizziness or Fainting: Diminished blood flow to the brain can lead to dizziness or fainting.
- Sweating: Unexplained sweating, especially in cold conditions or at rest, can be one of the common symptoms of coronary heart disease.
Coronary heart disease treatment:
When treating coronary heart disease (CHD), the approach can differ depending on how severe the condition is and individual factors. The treatment aims to reduce symptoms, prevent further damage, and improve overall heart health.
Coronary heart disease treatment encompasses various options to manage symptoms, prevent further damage, and promote overall heart health.
- Medications:
- Beta-blockers: Prescribed to regulate blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart.
- Statins: Lower cholesterol levels, addressing a key risk factor for CHD.
- Nitroglycerin: Alleviates chest pain by improving blood flow.
- Medical Procedures:
- Angioplasty: Involves inflating a small balloon within narrowed arteries to widen them and restore blood flow.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG): Creates new blood flow routes using grafts, bypassing blocked arteries.
Coronary heart disease treatment plans are curated based on individual needs and the severity of the condition. It’s important to consult with a professional for a personalized approach to coronary heart disease treatment.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent CHD
Lifestyle plays a crucial role in preventing coronary heart disease (CHD). By adopting healthy habits, the risk of CHD can be controlled significantly. Here are some lifestyle modifications that can help prevent CHD:
Eat a diet consisting of non-processed foods. Avoid sugars. Add vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and good fats.
Try to be active and engage in some type of physical movement for at least 30 minutes daily.
Smoking severely damages blood vessels and increases the risk of CHD. Seek counselling from healthcare professionals to quit smoking successfully.
Chronic stress can contribute to the development of CHD. Adopt a hobby that can help with managing stress eg. yoga, meditation, reading etc.
Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of CHD. Limit alcohol intake or avoid it altogether.
Consult Dr. Tamkeen Kinah for coronary heart disease treatment
In the journey to understand what is coronary heart disease and, protect our hearts and prevent coronary heart disease, we must take proactive measures.
If you seek expert guidance for coronary heart disease treatment, consider consulting with Dr. Tamkeen Kinah. With extensive experience in cardiovascular health, Dr. Kinah specialises in developing personalised treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs.
His commitment to excellence and patient-centred care ensures a comprehensive and compassionate approach to managing coronary heart disease.
Take the first step towards better heart health by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Tamkeen Kinah today.