Coronary Heart Disease
1 medicine
Coronary heart disease occurs when the arteries supplying the heart become narrowed by fatty deposits, restricting blood flow and raising the risk of heart attack. It is managed with cholesterol-lowering medicines such as statins.
Key facts
- Coronary heart disease (CHD) develops when plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, gradually narrowing them and reducing blood supply to the heart muscle.
- Atherosclerosis, cholesterol-rich deposits hardening in the artery walls, is the main driver; high LDL cholesterol is the most modifiable risk factor, alongside smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and inactivity.
- Statins such as simvastatin lower LDL cholesterol and slow plaque progression, forming the core of long-term treatment.
- Sudden, severe chest pain that does not settle at rest may signal a heart attack: seek emergency care immediately.
What drives the arteries to narrow
The main culprit is atherosclerosis: cholesterol-rich deposits accumulate in artery walls over years, hardening into plaques that restrict blood flow. High LDL cholesterol is the most modifiable risk factor, which is why cholesterol management sits at the centre of CHD prevention and treatment. Statins such as simvastatin lower LDL and slow plaque progression. Smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, high blood pressure, and a sedentary lifestyle all accelerate the process.
Warning signs worth acting on promptly
Chest tightness or pressure that comes on with exertion and eases with rest is the classic symptom. Pain may radiate to the jaw, left arm, or back. Breathlessness on mild activity and unusual fatigue are common, especially in women.
Lifestyle changes that help
Stopping smoking, staying physically active, eating a diet lower in saturated fat and salt, and keeping blood pressure and blood sugar within target range all slow the progression of CHD. These changes work alongside medicines rather than instead of them: statins and blood pressure treatment still matter even when lifestyle is well managed, since genetics and age also drive risk.
When to see a doctor
A sudden, severe chest pain that does not settle at rest may signal a heart attack: seek emergency care immediately. Anyone with new or worsening chest symptoms should get a prompt medical assessment even when the pain passes on its own.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.