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 worldwide.
Key points
- Atherosclerosis narrows the arteries as cholesterol-rich deposits harden into plaques inside the vessel walls over years.
- Uncontrolled diabetes, elevated blood pressure, smoking, and a lack of exercise each hasten how quickly the arteries narrow.
- A tight, pressing chest sensation brought on by exertion and relieved by rest is the classic warning, sometimes spreading to the jaw or arm.
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.