Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of death in the UK and worldwide.
- CHD is sometimes called ischaemic heart disease or coronary artery disease.
Heart disease is an umbrella term for a wide range of conditions that affect how a person’s heart is structured and how it functions. The most common condition is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). This is often caused by plaque buildup. CAD is a leading cause of death around the world. It can result in heart attacks and heart failure.
Symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Chest fatigue
- Swelling in legs, ankles or abdomen
Risks:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure/cholestrol
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Genetics
Prevention:
- Physical exercise
- Healthy and balanced diet
- Quit smoking if this is something you do
- Monitoring blood pressure, weight and cholesterol either at home or at the surgery with the nurse
- Taking prescription medication regularly as this will help you with your blood pressure or cholesterol