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Ischaemic heart disease symptoms: signs to look out for

According to the National Library of Medicine, Ischaemic heart disease is a common form of heart disease, affecting over 1% of the world’s population—and these rates are rising.

If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with ischaemic heart disease or you believe the condition may impact you, stick with us as we cover the signs and symptoms, how to get diagnosed, and available treatment options.

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What is ischaemic heart disease?

The National Library of Medicine states that Ischaemic heart disease, also known as ischemia, is a group of heart conditions that reduce the flow of oxygen and blood to the heart.

Two primary types of ischaemic heart disease are coronary artery disease (CAD) and coronary microvascular disorders.

  • Coronary artery disease: Caused by a blockage in a major artery, reducing blood flow to the heart.
  • Coronary microvascular disorders: Affect small blood vessels within the heart, also leading to ischemia (reduced oxygen and blood flow).

This reduction in oxygen and blood flow often occurs due to plaque build-up in the walls of the heart’s arteries, narrowing the arteries and obstructing blood flow. If the plaque ruptures, a clot can form and completely block blood flow, leading to heart cell failure and a heart attack.

This can result in chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, heart failure, or even death.

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What are the symptoms of ischaemic heart disease?

According to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, knowing the common symptoms of ischaemic heart disease is crucial to catching it early.

Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive, and self-diagnosis is not recommended. Always seek medical advice if you experience any of these symptoms:

  • Chest pain (angina)
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating
  • Heart palpitations

Remember, if you experience any chest pain, it's essential to seek immediate medical attention.

How do I get diagnosed with ischaemic heart disease?

If you believe you or a loved one may have ischaemic heart disease, it’s vital to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

According to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, a proper diagnosis will typically involve a combination of assessments, including:

  • Physical examination and medical history: Your doctor will assess your symptoms, family medical history (to determine hereditary risk), and lifestyle factors that could contribute to the condition.
  • Heart, pulse, and blood pressure measurements: These provide an overview of how well your heart is functioning.
  • Blood tests: These are used to detect specific markers in your blood that may indicate heart disease.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG is often used to check for unusual heart rhythms that could indicate heart damage. A stress test may also be conducted while wearing an ECG to see how your heart responds to physical activity, such as cycling or walking on a treadmill.
  • Imaging tests: Scans such as echocardiography, cardiac CT, or cardiac MRI may be ordered to get a clearer picture of your heart and blood vessels, identifying any blockages or areas of concern.

After gathering this information, your doctor will make a diagnosis. Since ischaemic heart disease encompasses several conditions, the diagnosis may specify whether you have coronary artery disease or another related condition.

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What are the treatment options for ischaemic heart disease?

The primary goal of treating ischaemic heart disease is to restore blood flow and oxygen to the heart, relieving symptoms and reducing the risk of complications such as heart failure.

According to the University of Vermont, treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual circumstances. Common treatment methods include:

  • Lifestyle changes: These can be effective in managing the disease and preventing it from worsening. Lifestyle changes may include regular exercise, weight management, and stress reduction techniques.
  • Medications: Several medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications. These can include antiplatelet agents, beta-blockers, and cholesterol-lowering drugs, depending on your needs.
  • Surgery: In more severe cases, surgery may be required to address blocked arteries or other issues affecting the heart. This could include procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery.

If you’ve been diagnosed with ischaemic heart disease, it’s important to consult with your GP or a specialist to discuss the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

Treatment recommendations vary depending on individual circumstances, so getting an expert opinion is essential.

Are you having trouble in the workplace because of ischaemic heart disease?

If ischaemic heart disease is affecting your ability to function at work, know that you’re not alone—and there are options available to support you.

Many people with ischaemic heart disease have been eligible for support to find and keep a job through Disability Employment Services, delivered by APM.

Through this government-funded program, APM offers free services to help people with disability, injury, or a health condition prepare for, find, and maintain meaningful employment.

If your current work environment is challenging due to your condition, we can assist you in accessing the support you need. This could include:

  • Helping you find a more accommodating role
  • Planning for your future career with a focus on both your health and professional goals
  • Assisting with job searches, resume writing, and interview preparation

Get in touch for support

If you’re ready to take the next step for your health and career satisfaction, we encourage you to reach out to our friendly team at APM.

We’ll work with you to find an inclusive and supportive workplace where you can thrive. With hundreds of locations across Australia, help is always nearby.

Register now

Resources and further reading

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au