Last Updated on February 21, 2025 by Analgesia team
Ischemic Heart Disease, the Leading Cause of Death in The Uk
IHD stands for ischemic heart disease, a condition that occurs when the heart’s blood supply is reduced. This can lead to heart damage and heart attack.
IHD is also known as coronary heart disease (CHD), coronary artery disease (CAD) or simply heart disease
According to the British Heart Foundation, coronary heart disease is a widespread condition affecting around 2.3 million people in the UK.
Causes of Heart Disease
- Coronary heart disease (CHD) is caused by fatty deposits in the coronary arteries. This buildup narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. This process is called atherosclerosis.
- The plaque can rupture, causing a clot that blocks blood flow.
- This clot can block your coronary artery and cut off the supply of blood and oxygen to your heart muscle. This is known as a heart attack.
IHD Diagnosis
Ischemic heart disease is diagnosed by a doctor asking about your medical history, performing a physical exam, and ordering tests.
Medical history
- Asking about your personal and family medical history
- Checking for risk factors like high blood pressure and high cholesterol
Physical exam
- Listening to your chest
- Looking for signs of fluid buildup in the body
Tests
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records your heart’s electrical activity
- Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create images of your heart
- Stress test: Monitors your heart while you exercise
- Cardiac catheterization: Checks for blocked arteries
- Imaging studies: Such as a chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI
- Wearable monitor: Sends your doctor reports about your heart’s activity while you go about your daily activitie
Signs & Symptoms of Ischemic Heart Disease
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- Chest pain or discomfort, known as angina pectoris
- Pain in the upper body
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Indigestion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
Coronary Heart Disease Treatment
Coronary heart disease (CHD) treatments include lifestyle changes, medications, and procedures. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and other health conditions.
Lifestyle changes
- Regular exercise,
- Stop smoking,
- Eat a healthy diet, and
- Manage stress.
Medications
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- Antiplatelets, such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticlopidine, and prasugrel, to reduce blood clotting
- Antihyperlipidemic, such as statins, to lower cholesterol
- Antihypertensives, such as various medicines to lower blood pressure
- Nitrates, such as tablets, sprays, and skin patches, to relax blood vessels and relieve pain
- Antiplatelets, such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticlopidine, and prasugrel, to reduce blood clotting
Procedures
- Angioplasty: A balloon is inflated in a narrowing artery to push plaque to the sides, and then a stent is inserted to reinforce the artery
- Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG): A vein or artery from another part of the body is used to divert blood around a blockage
- Heart transplant: A failing heart is replaced with a healthier donor heart
CHD can’t be cured, but treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of heart attacks
A healthcare provider can suggest treatments for IHD, which may include: physical activity, exercise training, and medication.
Prognosis
Mortality from IHD has fallen in recent decades due to improved prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. However, many patients don’t receive recommended treatments.