Symptoms of cad
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Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Exertional Chest Pain and Dyspnea
One of the primary symptoms of coronary artery disease (CAD) is exertional chest pain, also known as angina, which occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. This pain can also occur at rest and is often accompanied by shortness of breath or dyspnea . These symptoms are traditionally attributed to the insufficiency of the epicardial coronary arteries, although in some cases, coronary microvascular disease (CMD) may be the underlying cause.
Fatigue and Weakness
Patients with CAD frequently report severe fatigue and general weakness. These symptoms are often related to the chronic nature of the disease and the heart's reduced ability to pump blood efficiently . Fatigue is a common symptom that overlaps with other conditions, making it a critical factor in diagnosing CAD, especially in women.
Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is another common symptom of CAD. It can occur during physical exertion or even at rest, indicating that the heart is struggling to meet the body's oxygen demands . Dyspnea is often a sign of more severe disease and can be a predictor of adverse outcomes.
Abdominal Pain, Nausea, and Sweating
In addition to chest pain and dyspnea, patients with CAD may experience abdominal pain, nausea, and excessive sweating. These symptoms are often related to the body's stress response to reduced blood flow and oxygenation. They can sometimes be mistaken for gastrointestinal issues, complicating the diagnosis.
Cognitive and Emotional Symptoms
Patients with CAD may also experience cognitive symptoms such as trouble with thinking and concentration. Emotional symptoms like anxiety, stress, and mood changes are also prevalent. These symptoms can significantly impact the patient's quality of life and daily functioning .
Cold Sensitivity and Skin Discoloration
Cold sensitivity, including cold or numb feet and hands, and skin discoloration are frequently reported by patients with CAD. These symptoms are particularly common in conditions like cold agglutinin disease, which can coexist with CAD.
Orthostatic Intolerance and Dizziness
Orthostatic intolerance, characterized by dizziness upon standing, is another symptom associated with CAD. This can be particularly prevalent in patients with concurrent conditions like multiple sclerosis, where cardiac autonomic dysfunction is common.
Headache
Headache is a less common but notable symptom, especially in cases of cervicocerebral artery dissection (CAD), which can lead to stroke. The headache is often severe and located in specific regions of the head, depending on the affected arteries.
Conclusion
Coronary artery disease presents with a variety of symptoms, including exertional chest pain, dyspnea, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, sweating, cognitive and emotional disturbances, cold sensitivity, orthostatic intolerance, and headache. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of CAD. Understanding the full spectrum of symptoms can help healthcare providers offer better care and improve patient outcomes.
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