Some people experience no symptoms, and are not aware that they have heart disease. Others may experience mild chest discomfort or shortness of breath, while some persons with coronary heart disease have steady, uncontrolled chest pain that interferes with their daily activities. The classic symptom associated with coronary heart disease is called angina. The discomfort can sometimes spread to the neck, jaw or arm regions. Other symptoms that may accompany angina include sweating, lightheadedness, nausea, shortness of breath, and palpitations.
Stable angina is usually somewhat predictable.
It may occur with increased exertion or extreme emotion, or following a large meal. Unstable angina is less predictable. It may occur with little exertion or during rest, it often comes and goes at frequent intervals, and may be accompanied by more severe symptoms. Once you are diagnosed with coronary heart disease, your doctor will give you specific guidelines for when to seek medical care for angina. Since the extent of coronary heart disease does not always match the duration and severity of chest discomfort, it is important for all persons who experience chest pain to have their symptoms evaluated by a doctor.