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What is Coronary Artery Disease?
Coronary artery disease (CAD) happens when the coronary arteries (the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle) become narrowed by a build-up of fatty deposits called atherosclerosis. This reduces blood flow to the heart.
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Symptoms
- Angina â chest pain or discomfort when the heart is working harder; often triggered by exercise or stress
- Shortness of breath
- Heart attack â sudden severe chest pain; seek emergency help immediately (call 999)
- Heart failure â when the heart cannot pump blood around the body effectively
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Risk Factors
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Family history
- Age (risk increases with age)
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Treatment
- Lifestyle changes â healthy diet, regular exercise, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol
- Medicines â statins (to lower cholesterol), aspirin, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors
- Procedures â coronary angioplasty with stents, bypass surgery for severe blockages
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Getting Help
If you have chest pain that does not go away, call 999 immediately. The British Heart Foundation helpline is available on 0300 330 3311.
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Questions to Ask Your Doctor
These questions can help you get the most from your next GP or specialist appointment.
- • What is my heart condition called, and what does it mean?
- • What medications am I on and why?
- • Are there any symptoms I should watch for that need urgent attention?
- • Should I be referred to a cardiologist?
- • Is my cholesterol and blood pressure at target?
- • Can I exercise â what level is safe for me?
- • Am I eligible for any devices (pacemaker, ICD)?
- • What is my 10-year cardiovascular risk?
NHS Pathway
What Happens Next on the NHS
1
GP Assessment
ECG, blood pressure monitoring, cholesterol panel, and QRISK3 score to assess cardiovascular risk.
2
Investigations
Echocardiogram, 24-hour Holter monitor, exercise tolerance test, or cardiology outpatient referral.
3
Cardiology Review
Consultant-led treatment plan covering medications, device assessment (pacemaker/ICD) if needed.
4
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular cardiology or GP review, medication titration, and lifestyle support programme.
Timelines are approximate and may vary by NHS trust and area. Your GP can advise on local services.