What is a common chief complaint associated with coronary artery disease?

Chest pressure that worsens with exertion is a classic chief complaint associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). This condition stems from the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis, which can significantly limit blood flow to the heart during physical activity. As the heart demands more oxygen during exertion, patients often experience angina, which manifests as chest pressure or discomfort. This symptom is a key indicator that the heart is not receiving adequate blood supply, leading to a sense of tightness, squeezing, or dull pain in the chest.

While chest pain at rest can occur, it is often associated with more severe forms of ischemic heart disease and may indicate unstable angina. Shortness of breath on exertion may indicate heart failure or other cardiac issues but is less specific to CAD alone. Heartburn after meals can sometimes mimic cardiac symptoms but is more aligned with gastrointestinal issues rather than a direct consequence of coronary artery disease. Thus, chest pressure worsening with exertion is the most direct and representative of the typical anginal symptoms associated with CAD.