Heart disease can present itself in a variety of ways, some of which may not be immediately recognized by individuals or even healthcare providers.

While chest pain is often associated with heart attacks, the reality is more complex. Jaw, neck, and left arm pain can be indicators, especially on the left side.

• Women might experience symptoms differently, such as nausea or vomiting instead of chest heaviness.
• A sensation of heaviness or shortness of breath during physical activity, which subsides with rest, is a common indicator.
• Overall fatigue may signal heart problems, due to insufficient blood flow causing less oxygen delivery to muscles and lungs.

Men may experience unique symptoms such as erectile dysfunction. This can be an early sign of arterial damage in blood vessels, including those supplying the heart.

Symptoms such as a temporary "shade" over one eye may indicate plaque in carotid arteries.

Detecting and diagnosing cardiovascular disease early is critical to preventing adverse outcomes. Here are some tests used in clinical practice.

• Traditional cholesterol tests may not fully predict heart disease risk; focus on inflammation markers is increasing.
• An emerging preferred test is the CT coronary angiogram, particularly the "Clearly" test which uses AI for detailed imaging.

Modern tests utilize artificial intelligence to dissect calcified areas within blood vessels, providing a comprehensive view of artery health without extensive invasiveness. This technology aids in determining the presence and extent of coronary artery disease more accurately than traditional methods alone.