Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD) develops when plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, gradually narrowing them and reducing blood supply to the heart muscle. It is the leading cause of death across Asia, with particularly high burdens in South Asia and among South Asian diaspora communities throughout Southeast Asia.

Medicine used to treat Coronary Heart Disease

Zocor

Simvastatin

5 · 10 · 20 · 40mg

Indicated to support the reduction of cholesterol levels, formulated to mitigate cardiovascular risk by inhibiting a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis.

From $0.62 / tablet View

What drives the arteries to narrow

The main culprit is atherosclerosis: cholesterol-rich deposits accumulate in artery walls over years, hardening into plaques that restrict flow. High LDL cholesterol is the most modifiable risk factor, which is why cholesterol management sits at the centre of CHD prevention and treatment. Statins such as simvastatin lower LDL and slow plaque progression. Smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, and a sedentary lifestyle all accelerate the process.

Warning signs worth acting on promptly

Chest tightness or pressure that comes on with exertion and eases with rest is the classic symptom. Pain may radiate to the jaw, left arm, or back. Breathlessness on mild activity and unusual fatigue are common, especially in women. A sudden, severe chest pain that does not settle at rest may signal a heart attack: seek emergency care immediately.