Coronary heart disease, commonly called coronary artery disease, is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. It affects about 14 million people in the U.S. and claims more lives than the next 7 causes of death combined. It results from a combination of age, unhealthy habits and other underlying causes. While there are treatments for coronary heart disease, the condition itself is incurable, and the damage done to the heart muscle has been, until very recently, believed to be irreversible. New treatments may offer new hope, but for most people, coronary heart disease is a lifelong, chronic condition.

Symptoms and Complications

While there are many symptoms of coronary heart disease, few people exhibit all of them and some show no signs or symptoms at all. In fact, arteries can be up to 50% blocked without causing any symptoms of cardiac disease. The most serious, and often tragic, symptom of coronary heart disease is sudden cardiac arrest. It can occur in people who have shown no other symptoms, though it is more common in those who have had previous heart attacks. Symptoms are usually most evident during exercise or physical activity. They include:

* Chest pain: or angina pectoris, which may be eased by reset

* Shortness of breath: during exercise or exertion

* Jaw pain, back pain or arm pain: especially on the left side

* Palpitations: very rapid or strong heartbeats

* Weakness : on exertion or at rest

* Irregular heartbeat

* Dizziness

Risk Factors and Causes

Coronary heart disease is caused by any condition with the arteries to the heart that prevent it from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs for healthy operation. There are many risk factors for coronary heart disease, including:

* Heredity: coronary heart disease is more common in people with a family history of coronary disease

* High cholesterol: which can clog arteries and cause plaques that narrow blood vessels

* Tobacco use: including cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking, as well as chewing tobacco

* High blood pressure

* Obesity

* Diabetes

* Poor diet: especially high fat diet

* Lack of exercise: or sedentary lifestyle

* Type A personality: high-stress, impatient, aggressive and competitive

Treatments

The treatment for coronary heart disease is a combination or lifestyle and diet changes to reduce risk factors and medical treatment, including medications, invasive procedures and surgery. Research into the causes and ways to prevent and cure coronary heart disease are ongoing, and some therapies, including stem cell therapy, show a great deal of promise.