Coronary artery disease symptoms
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Understanding Coronary Artery Disease Symptoms
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries due to plaque buildup, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart. This article synthesizes research findings on the symptoms of CAD, highlighting differences based on sex and other factors.
Common Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease
Chest Pain and Discomfort
Chest pain, also known as angina, is the most common symptom of CAD. It often manifests as a feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest, which may radiate to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, or jaw . This pain typically occurs during physical exertion or emotional stress and improves with rest.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is another frequent symptom of CAD. It can occur with or without chest pain and is often a sign of heart failure or other complications related to reduced blood flow to the heart .
Atypical Symptoms in Women
Research indicates that women often experience a broader range of symptoms compared to men. While chest pain remains common, women are more likely to report atypical symptoms such as back pain, jaw pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, and loss of appetite . These symptoms can be less dramatic and non-specific, sometimes leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment .
Symptoms in Coronary Microvascular Disease
In cases where patients, particularly women, have angina but no evidence of epicardial coronary artery stenosis, coronary microvascular disease (CMD) is often the underlying cause. CMD can present with exertional chest pain or dyspnea, similar to traditional CAD symptoms.
Sex Differences in Symptom Presentation
Men vs. Women
Studies have shown that men and women exhibit different symptom patterns in CAD. Men are more likely to report classic chest pain and diaphoresis (excessive sweating) during myocardial infarction, whereas women report a wider array of symptoms, including those mentioned above . Women also tend to have more frequent angina, even with less extensive coronary artery disease and less severe ischemia compared to men.
Clinical Implications
These sex differences in symptom presentation have significant implications for clinical practice. Health care providers need to be aware of the atypical symptoms that women may present with to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment of CAD .
Conclusion
Coronary artery disease presents with a variety of symptoms, with chest pain being the most common. However, women often experience a broader range of atypical symptoms, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Understanding these differences is crucial for improving clinical outcomes and ensuring that both men and women receive appropriate care for CAD.
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