What symptom is typically associated with coronary artery disease?

Chest pain or pressure is a hallmark symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD). This condition arises from the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. When these arteries narrow, the heart may not receive enough blood, especially during exertion or stress. This can lead to angina, which manifests as chest pain or pressure.

While asymptomatic cases occur, as CAD can progress without noticeable symptoms, chest pain or pressure remains the most recognized and significant symptom associated with the condition, often prompting individuals to seek medical attention. Shortness of breath may also appear, particularly in advanced stages of CAD or heart failure; however, it is not as specific to CAD as chest pain or pressure. Polyuria, which refers to the production of abnormally large volumes of urine, is unrelated to coronary artery disease and typically pertains to other conditions like diabetes. Thus, chest pain or pressure is the key symptom closely associated with coronary artery disease.