Coronary heart disease happens when the arteries that supply the heart muscle become narrowed by fatty deposits. This can cause angina — chest pain or tightness during effort or stress that eases with rest. It is a leading cause of death worldwide and is becoming more common in Afghanistan. Treatment and lifestyle changes greatly lower the risk of a heart attack.
Symptoms
Chest pain, pressure or tightness during exertion, such as climbing stairs, after a heavy meal, in cold weather or with stress
Pain that may spread to the left arm, neck, jaw or back
Pain that goes away within a few minutes of rest
Shortness of breath with effort
Tiredness
In women, older people and people with diabetes, symptoms may be mild or unusual
Causes
Smoking and naswar
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Being overweight and little physical activity
A family history of early heart disease
Older age and male sex
Prevention
Do not smoke or use naswar
Eat less salt and fat, and more vegetables, fruit, lentils and beans
Talk to a doctor
Get advice by video, voice or chat without leaving home.
Procedures such as angioplasty with a stent, or bypass surgery, for some people
Heart rehabilitation and regular follow-up
Do not start or stop prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
What should I do if angina does not go away?
Stop and rest, and use your nitrate spray or tablet as your doctor told you. If the pain is not gone within about 5 minutes, use it again; if it still lasts, call for emergency help — it may be a heart attack.
Can I be physically active with angina?
Yes. Regular, gentle activity such as walking is good for the heart. Build up slowly, stop if you get pain, and ask your doctor how much activity is safe for you.
