Heart Disease is caused by the build up of fatty deposits in the arteries. The most common symptoms of this are chest pain (angina) or a heart attack.
If your coronary arteries become partially blocked, it can cause angina, which at first can be a mild, uncomfortable feeling similar to indigestion. If your arteries become completely blocked, it can cause a heart attack. Heart attacks can permanently damage the heart muscle and, if not treated straight away, can be fatal.
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of death both in Northern Ireland and worldwide. CHD is sometimes called ischaemic heart disease. Dial 999 for immediate medical help if you think you’re having a heart attack.
