Currently, just under 2.7 million people in the UK have coronary heart disease, the most common type of heart disease, of which there are several different types.

In general, an unhealthy lifestyle causes the arteries to clog up, restricting blood flow to the heart. This can lead to angina (chest pain), heart failure and heart attacks.

Heart Failure

Heart failure occurs when the heart begins to pump blood less efficiently, possibly caused by heart muscle damaged by a heart attack. In rare cases, it may be caused by excessive alcohol intake, a viral infection or conditions that put extra strain on the heart such as high blood pressure, anaemia, heart valve disease, thyroid gland disease, or an overly fast or slow heart rate.

Symptoms

• Swollen ankles or feet due to salt and water retention, possible variscose veins
• Breathlessness, sometimes with a cough
• Extreme tiredness and loss of energy doing everyday tasks
• Quick weight gain, possibly two or three pounds in one day
• Irregular heartbeats, nausea, palpitations and chest pain

It is possible to have many symptoms without significant danger, or to have a severely damaged heart but few or no symptoms.

Angina

When build-ups inside the arteries impair oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscles, lactic acid builds up and causes pain. Angina is this pressure in the chest, sometimes painful, that could feel like aching, burning or squeezing.

Possibly mistaken for indigestion or heartburn, the pressure may spread to the rest of the upper body.

Angina may be prompted by exercise or stress, as the supply of blood to the heart is insufficient. It usually disappears within 15 minutes or with a nitrate tablet or spray.

Angina is a common symptom of coronary artery disease, but can also be caused by heart valve disease, thickened heart muscles and severe anaemia.

If angina occurs while resting, lasts longer than 15 minutes or is not relieved after three doses of medication, it is unstable and could indicate a forthcoming heart attack. Call immediately for emergency help.

Read More

Heart Disease: Currently, just under 2.7 million people in the UK have coronary heart disease, the most common type of heart disease, of which there are several different types.

Types of Heart Disease: There are many types of heart disease, each with their own unique symptoms. Read on to learn....

Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease: Find out more about heart disease and find out how you can minimise the risk of developing the disease.

Understanding Heart Attacks: Find out more about the symptoms of a heart attack.