What is ischaemic heart disease?

Ischemic heart disease is a heart problem that reduces the supply of blood to the heart due to narrowed heart arteries, explains the American Heart Association. It is also called coronary artery disease, and it can lead to angina and heart attacks.

A buildup of fatty acids on the inner walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscles is the main cause of ischemic heart disease, according to the Heart Foundation. The buildup can occur over a period of several years, states the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute. The plaque buildup hardens and narrows the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries, which are now narrow and rigid, restrict blood flow to the heart, says WebMD. This starves the heart of oxygen and the vital nutrients that it needs to function properly.