Coronary artery disease is a condition in which the arteries that carry blood to the heart are physically blocked or clogged. The cholesterol or fatty deposits on the inner walls of the artery narrow the blood vessel. As a result, there is insufficient blood flow to the heart muscles that may cause chest pain or even a heart attack.

The common symptoms of coronary heart disease are as follows: chest pain (angina); irregular palpitations of the heart; breathlessness; and tightness in the chest, jaw and the neck which can radiate to both the arms.

The following methods are used in the diagnosis of sickle cell anemia:
- A thorough assessment of medical history
- Physical examination
- Blood tests – sickle solubility tests, blood films
- Haemoglobin electrophoresis

A healthy lifestyle and regular medication can control coronary heart disease. You may prevent it in the following ways: eating a healthy diet low in fat and cholesterol and high in fibres; exercise daily; maintain a healthy weight; quit smoking; avoid drinking excess alcohol; regularly check cholesterol levels; keep diabetes in control; and keep blood pressure under control.

The following treatment options are available: reducing risks of coronary artery disease by lifestyle changes; medications to control cholesterol, high blood pressure; blood-thinning medicines; medicines that widen the blood vessels and control angina(chest pain); inserting a drug-releasing stent by angioplasty; and bypass surgery.