What condition involves the hardening of arteries affecting the coronary vessels?

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is characterized by the hardening and narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle, primarily due to a buildup of plaque made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. This condition leads to reduced blood flow to the heart, which can result in chest pain (angina) or even heart attacks if the blood supply is significantly compromised.

The other conditions listed are related to cardiovascular health but do not specifically involve the hardening of the arteries. Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle that affect its size, shape, and function. Cardiac arrest is a sudden loss of heart function, often due to electrical disturbances in the heart, and is not specifically tied to arterial hardening. Arrhythmia involves irregular heartbeat patterns, which may occur independently of arterial health. Understanding the distinction between these conditions is essential for recognizing how they relate to overall heart health, particularly the impact of arterial hardening in coronary heart disease.