Simple Definition:
Coronary artery disease is when the blood vessels that supply the heart, called the coronary arteries, become narrowed or blocked.
Yes, gentle and regular exercise is often encouraged, but it should be guided by your doctor. Cardiac rehabilitation programmes can help you exercise safely.
No, some people have no symptoms until the disease is advanced or they have a heart attack. Regular check-ups are important if you have risk factors.
No, angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease. The disease itself is the narrowing of the arteries, while angina is the chest pain that results from reduced blood flow.
Coronary artery disease is when the blood vessels that supply the heart, called the coronary arteries, become narrowed or blocked. This happens because fatty deposits, also known as plaque, build up inside the artery walls. Over time, this reduces the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.
It is one of the most common types of heart disease and a leading cause of illness and death worldwide. In the UK, thousands of people are affected, but the condition is often preventable and treatable with the right care.
The condition develops gradually over many years through a process called atherosclerosis. At first, fatty deposits may not cause any problems. But as they grow, the arteries become narrower and stiffer. This limits how much blood can reach the heart.
Sometimes, the plaque can rupture, leading to a blood clot forming inside the artery. If the clot blocks blood flow completely, it can cause a heart attack.
The most common symptom is angina, which is chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. Angina often feels like pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the chest, and it can spread to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. It is usually triggered by physical activity or emotional stress and eases with rest.
Other symptoms can include breathlessness, fatigue, or palpitations. Sometimes, people have no symptoms until the disease becomes advanced or until they have a heart attack.
Most of the time, no. That is why it is dangerous. Many people have high blood pressure for years without knowing. In very severe cases, symptoms like headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, or nosebleeds can happen, but these are rare and often linked to extremely high readings.
Because symptoms are uncommon, the only reliable way to know if you have high blood pressure is to get it measured.
Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease, but the term “heart disease” can include other conditions too. For example, problems with heart valves, abnormal rhythms, or heart muscle disease are all types of heart disease. Coronary artery disease specifically refers to blockages in the arteries that supply the heart.
Doctors usually start with a discussion of symptoms and risk factors. They may check blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. An electrocardiogram (ECG) can show if there are problems with the heart’s rhythm or past damage.
Other tests include echocardiograms, CT scans, or MRI scans to look at the heart’s structure and function. A coronary angiogram may be done, where dye is injected into the arteries to see blockages on an X-ray. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
Treatment usually combines lifestyle changes, medicines, and sometimes medical procedures. Lifestyle changes include eating a healthier diet, being more active, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol. These steps not only help manage the disease but also prevent it from getting worse.
Medicines often prescribed include statins to lower cholesterol, beta-blockers to reduce strain on the heart, and aspirin or other drugs to prevent clots.
When arteries are very narrow, procedures may be needed. Angioplasty with a stent can widen the artery and improve blood flow. In more severe cases, coronary artery bypass surgery may be performed, where new routes are created for blood to reach the heart.
This chart shows the main risk factors for coronary artery disease in UK adults. Around 1 in 4 adults have high blood pressure, while 4 in 10 have high cholesterol. Smoking remains a major contributor, with about 13% of adults still smoking. These factors significantly increase the chances of developing coronary artery disease.
There is no cure that completely removes the disease, but it can be controlled. Treatments can relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of heart attacks. Many people live long and active lives after diagnosis if they follow their treatment plan carefully.
Yes, untreated coronary artery disease can be life-threatening. It increases the risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and abnormal heart rhythms. However, with treatment and lifestyle changes, the risks can be greatly reduced. The earlier it is diagnosed, the easier it is to manage.
Prevention is one of the most important aspects of coronary artery disease. Stopping smoking, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight all help protect the arteries. Keeping blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes under control also lowers the risk.
Regular health checks are important, especially for people with a family history of heart disease. Prevention is not always possible, but healthy habits make a big difference.
Living with the condition often means making changes. Medicines may be needed long term, and follow-up appointments are important. But with the right care, many people continue to work, exercise, and enjoy life.
Cardiac rehabilitation programmes, often offered after a heart attack or procedure, provide education and exercise support to help patients recover and manage their condition. Heartsure offer this service for patients in the London & Surrey area.
Emotional health is also important. A diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but support from healthcare teams, family, and friends helps people adjust.
Coronary artery disease happens when the arteries supplying the heart become narrowed or blocked by fatty deposits. It often causes angina and can lead to heart attacks if untreated. Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and poor lifestyle habits.
Although it cannot be cured, it can be managed with lifestyle changes, medicines, and sometimes procedures like stents or bypass surgery. Early diagnosis, prevention, and long-term care are key to reducing risks and improving quality of life.
Disclaimer: Seonat provides general health information for educational purposes only. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition or before making health decisions.
Simplifying health information for those who need it most
Please note: we are not medical professionals, and the content on this website is for general information only. Always speak to a qualified healthcare provider for medical advice.