Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among men, according to MedlinePlus. Heart disease can also be called coronary heart disease (CHD) or coronary artery disease (CAD). Men older than 40 years of age have a high risk of developing heart disease. Symptoms of heart disease may be readily apparent, but some patients with CHD may not experience any noticeable symptoms. A thorough study of possible symptoms of CHD can help patients recognize the disease and seek treatment before any complications occur.
Chest Pain
MedlinePlus states in their article "Coronary Artery Disease" that chest pain or angina remains the most common symptom of heart disease. Patients feel this pain or discomfort when the heart does not receive enough blood through the coronary arteries. The two types of chest pain include typical chest pain and atypical chest pain.
Typical chest pain feels like a heavy sensation underneath the breastbone. Pain can occur because of exercise or intense emotion. Patients can relieve pain with rest or medication.
Atypical chest pain feels like a sharp pain that comes and goes. The pain begins in the chest, but might move to abdomen, back or arm. This pain has no relation to exercise and is not relieved by normal medication.
Shortness of Breath
Another common symptom experienced by patients suffering from heart disease includes shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that this symptom can occur at rest or during exercise, and can indicate that the heart does not function properly.
Heart Attack
In the article, "Coronary Heart Disease," published in the New York Times, a heart attack, or a myocardial infarction, is listed as a possible first sign of heart disease. A heart attack results because of a lack of oxygenated blood getting to the heart. The five important signs that a patient is experiencing a heart attack include chest pain, pain that radiates to the jaw, neck, or back, light-headedness, pain in the left arm or shoulder and shortness of breath.
Fatigue
MedlinePlus lists fatigue as one of the more common symptoms of heart disease. The fatigue can occur during exertion, or exercise, and may also include the patient's inability to perform actions that normally very easy prior to onset of the disease. Patients may find it difficult to climb stairs or walk a relatively short distance.
Abnormal Heartbeat
According to the Mayo Clinic, some symptoms of heart disease can be due to the abnormal beating of the heart. The patient's heart may be beating too fast, too slow, or in an irregular pattern. Symptoms caused by the abnormal heart beat include a fast heartbeat (tachycardia), a slower than normal heartbeat (bradycardia), a fluttering sensation in the chest, dizziness, and fainting. A patient experiencing these symptoms for a prolonged period of time should seek medical assistance.
