Originating in the base of the aorta, the coronary arteries are blood vessels that travel on the surface of the heart and take care of the heart.
As the heart needs more oxygen when it is under strain, the most common symptom of coronary artery disease is a crushing pain or pressure in the chest, neck, shoulder area or arms or between the shoulder blades during physical exertion. Usually, the pain or tightness prevents moving. The symptoms normally go away after a few minutes. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, general fatigue, heartburn and nausea. A person with diabetes does not necessarily have clear chest pain symptoms.
In the case of severe coronary artery disease, the symptoms may appear during physical exertion or in connection with a strong emotional reaction. In the case of unstable coronary artery disease, symptoms may occur even under minor strain or even while resting. There are individual differences in the severity and frequency of the symptoms.
In the worst-case scenario, the build-up or soft plaque in the wall of a coronary artery may tear, resulting in a clot of blood forming and blocking the artery. This coronary thrombosis i.e. heart attack. It is always a serious condition, which requires immediate treatment.
In principle, the examination and treatment of coronary artery disease are no different for a person with diabetes. The basis of treatment is lifestyle therapy. You also need to carefully treat the risk factors, including blood sugar. Coronary artery disease medication is also used. A heart disease specialist called a cardiologist determines the need for measures, such as balloon angioplasty or coronary bypass surgery.
You can read more about heart's structure and functions as well as coronary artery disease and its risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment in the Hearthub.