Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) can manifest a range of symptoms, some of which might be subtle or mistaken for other conditions. Here are the most commonly associated symptoms:
- Angina (Chest Pain): This is the most classic symptom of CAD. Angina is characterized by pain, discomfort, or a squeezing sensation in the chest. It may also feel like heaviness or tightness. Angina is typically triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress and is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin.
- Shortness of Breath: If the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, it can result in shortness of breath or extreme fatigue with exertion.
- Heart Attack: This occurs when a coronary artery is completely blocked, preventing blood from reaching part of the heart muscle. Symptoms of a heart attack include intense chest pain, nausea, indigestion, heartburn-like sensation, dizziness, cold sweat, and shortness of breath. It’s crucial to note that some heart attacks occur without any clear symptoms and can be silent, especially in individuals with diabetes.
- Palpitations: Irregular heartbeats or a feeling of the heart beating hard or fast can occur when the heart is struggling to deliver blood due to blocked arteries.
- Weakness or Dizziness: Reduced blood flow due to a blocked artery can cause feelings of fatigue, weakness, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
- Nausea: A less common symptom, but some people with CAD might experience nausea, which can accompany other more typical symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.
Symptoms can vary significantly between individuals, and in some cases, CAD might not cause any noticeable symptoms until a significant blockage or a heart attack occurs. Regular check-ups and being aware of cardiovascular risk factors can help in early detection and management.