Signs and Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease. CAD occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrow or hard, often due to the buildup of cholesterol or plaque, known as atherosclerosis. CAD is the leading cause of death in the United States, regardless of sex and racial or ethnic background.

CAD usually develops slowly over many years, gradually reducing blood flow to the heart. Symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue may emerge over time, significantly affecting daily activities.

Angina

Angina (chest pain) happens when you don't have enough blood flow to your heart, causing your heart to work with less oxygen than it needs to function properly and leading to a squeezing feeling in your chest.

There are different types of angina: stable, unstable, microvascular, and angina caused by a spasm. Both stable and unstable angina occur when the arteries (blood vessels) become narrow or blocked during CAD. The severity of symptoms varies for these types of angina.

Stable Angina

Stable angina, or angina pectoris, is chest pain or discomfort caused by heart disease. This results from one or more of the heart's arteries becoming narrow or blocked and the heart not getting enough oxygen to meet daily activity demands. Stable angina usually happens during exercise or physical exertion and goes away with rest.

Unstable Angina

Unstable angina is chest pain that happens suddenly and often while at rest. It's more serious than regular chest pain because it can lead to a heart attack. Unstable angina occurs when blood flow to the heart decreases suddenly. Atherosclerosis can cause this condition and may lead to a blood clot that blocks the blood flow.

Unstable angina is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. If you're having sudden chest pain, especially while lying down or at rest, call 911 or visit the emergency department as soon as possible.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath occurs when you can't catch your breath or have trouble breathing. When CAD causes your heart's arteries to narrow and reduces blood flow, your heart has to work harder to pump blood. This can cause your lungs to fill with fluid, leading to shortness of breath at rest and during activities.

This symptom tends to worsen over time, especially if you don't receive treatment for your condition. Seek immediate medical attention if you're experiencing shortness of breath alongside chest pain or discomfort. This could be a sign of a more serious heart issue, like a heart attack.

Tightness in the Arms, Back, Neck, or Jaw

Tightness or pain in your arms, back, neck, or jaw can be another sign that your heart isn't getting enough blood. While chest pain is most common with CAD, the pain and tightness can spread to other parts of the body. Some people feel this discomfort even if their chest doesn't hurt. These symptoms could also be a warning sign of a heart attack. Take tightness in these areas seriously and seek medical help right away if it occurs.

Other Symptoms

Symptoms of CAD can often vary from person to person. Other common symptoms of this heart disease include:

• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Lightheadedness

High Risk of Heart Attack

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, happens when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is reduced or completely stopped. Heart attacks sometimes occur without noticeable symptoms and are known as a "silent" heart attack. A heart attack can also be severe enough to cause the heart to fail and lead to sudden death.

Coronary artery disease is a common cause of heart attacks, and some people don't even know they have CAD until they've experienced a heart attack. That said, symptoms of a heart attack include:

• Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort
• Neck pain
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Weakness
• Cold sweats
• Fatigue
• Anxiety
  

Symptoms in Women 

Research suggests that symptoms of CAD in people assigned female at birth can look different than symptoms in males. These symptoms may include: 

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constant lethargy and exhaustion

Women are also less likely than men to have chest pain during a heart attack. Instead, they may experience symptoms like:

• Dizziness
• Severe fatigue
• Stomach pain that won't go away
• Back or jaw pain

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider 

Contact a healthcare provider if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of CAD. You should seek immediate care if you notice symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, especially if these symptoms are sudden or severe and don't go away with rest.

A Quick Review 

Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, often due to a cholesterol or plaque buildup. This can lead to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and a higher risk of a heart attack. CAD is the most common cause of death in the U.S., so it's important to seek treatment from a healthcare provider if you're experiencing symptoms.