How does coronary heart disease manifest in individuals?

Coronary heart disease primarily manifests as chest pain or discomfort, commonly referred to as angina. This occurs due to a reduction in blood flow to the heart muscle, which can result from the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries. The sensation experienced can vary from a feeling of pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center or left side of the chest. It may also radiate to the shoulders, neck, arms, back, teeth, or jaw.

The presence of chest pain or discomfort is a significant indicator of underlying heart issues, as it suggests that the heart is not receiving adequate oxygen-rich blood during physical exertion or even at rest in some cases. In contrast, while chronic fatigue, severe headaches, and respiratory difficulties can be associated with various health conditions, they are not specific manifestations of coronary heart disease. Understanding that chest pain is a primary symptom helps in recognizing the urgency of the situation and emphasizes the need for medical assessment in such cases.