The U.S. National Library of Medicine reports that heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. Also called coronary artery disease, this condition occurs when the coronary arteries that deliver fresh blood to the heart narrow due to plaque deposits. Heart disease has serious complications. Knowing the risks of heart disease allows you to monitor your health.
Angina
Angina, or chest pain, is classified as stable or unstable. Physiologically, angina develops when the coronary arteries narrow to the point that some of the heart muscle is deprived of enough oxygen. It usually lasts for several minutes before subsiding. Stable angina occurs during a period of time when it can be anticipated, such as strenuous exercise. The heart, working hard to pump enough blood to meet the body's demands during exercise, cannot get enough fresh, oxygenated blood through the narrowed coronary arteries. This brings about chest pain and may cause difficulty breathing. Unstable angina is considered more serious because it occurs at random times, even when the body is at rest. Angina can forewarn a heart attack, so your physician must be aware that you are experiencing chest pains. You may receive a nitroglycerin medication to take during episodes of angina.
Heart Attack
A heart attack is usually the result of a clot becoming stuck in a coronary artery narrowed by heart disease. This deprives the heart muscle of needed oxygen-rich blood, resulting in damage to the heart. This can be fatal or life-altering. According to Merck Manual, almost one-third of people who have a heart attack die as a result. Signs of heart attack vary by the person, from crushing chest pain to nausea and sweating.
Arrhythmia
Electrical charges tell the heart how and when to pump the blood. Mayo Clinic explains that, over time, coronary artery disease can harm this electrical system, leading to heart arrhythmias. With an arrhythmia, your heart fails to beat in a normal way. This can worsen your overall heart function and may be fatal.
Heart Failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle is deprived of an adequate supply of oxygen and other nutrients that are carried in the blood. The deprivation leaves the heart unable to properly pump blood to the body. Heart failure causes disability and can be fatal.
