Last Updated on April 10, 2025 by tanya

When Coronary Artery Disease Is Missed in Men

Links to Heart Failure And Medical Negligence Claims

 

Although a common and serious health issue, when coronary artery disease is missed in men it may have severe repercussions.

CAD affects men worldwide, but it may be diagnosed as another health condition. A misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis may have potentially serious consequences.

Knowing the red flags to watch for and insisting on proper evaluation is important. However if mistakes are made in diagnosis or treatment, you may want to find out about filing a medical negligence claim for compensation

If this has happened to you, a claim may not undo the damage, but it may provide accountability and financial support to move forward.

First Personal Injury can help. We partner with highly experienced lawyers who can assess whether you have a valid claim.

 

What Is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?

Coronary Artery Disease is a progressive disease and one of the leading causes of death in men.

It occurs when the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque build-up. The coronary arteries are responsible for providing oxygen-rich blood to the heart’s muscles. If this blood flow is restricted, it can result in chest pain (angina), shortness of breath and even a heart attack.

 

CAD May Be Misdiagnosed As These Conditions

You may have gone to the doctor or A&E with chest pain and been told it’s “stress” or “probably reflux”, but it has turned out to be CAD. Here are some conditions which may mimic those of CAD.

 

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Heartburn and chest pressure from acid reflux can closely resemble angina, especially after meals or when lying down. Without further testing, this is a common misdiagnosis.

 

Musculoskeletal Pain (e.g., Costochondritis)

Pain from strained muscles or inflamed cartilage in the chest can mimic heart-related pain. It’s usually positional—but not always, leading to confusion.

 

Anxiety or Panic Attacks

Anxiety can cause chest tightness, shortness of breath, and even palpitations. Men under stress may brush it off as “just anxious,” especially if they’re younger.

 

Pulmonary Embolism

A blood clot in the lungs shares symptoms with a heart attack: chest pain, breathlessness, dizziness. Like CAD, it’s a condition which requires immediate medical attention, But, it may be often confused with CAD or vice versa.

 

Pericarditis

This inflammation of the sac around the heart can cause sharp chest pain. Although it’s heart-related, it differs from CAD and requires different treatment.

 

Muscle Strain

If you’ve been active or had a fall, pain might be attributed to a pulled chest muscle. While sometimes correct, this diagnosis shouldn’t be made without ruling out cardiac causes.

 

Is CAD a Cause of Heart Failure?

 

CAD is one of the most common causes of heart failure, especially among men. When the heart doesn’t receive enough blood and oxygen due to blocked arteries, parts of the heart muscle can become weak or damaged.

Over a prolonged period, this affects the heart’s ability to pump efficiently, leading to heart failure. However, CAD isn’t the only cause. Other contributors to heart failure in men include:

 

• Hypertension (high blood pressure): Over time, it puts extra strain on the heart.

 

• Cardiomyopathy: Diseases of the heart muscle that are often unrelated to blood flow.

 

• Valvular Heart Disease: Dysfunction of heart valves affects blood flow and heart efficiency.

 

• Diabetes: Increases the risk of heart disease and damages blood vessels.

 

• Excessive alcohol use and drug abuse: Can weaken the heart muscle.

 

• Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart, often due to viral infections.

 

Recognise Symptoms of CAD

Recognising the signs of CAD early can make a critical difference in preventing serious outcomes like heart attacks or heart failure. Key symptoms include:

 

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina): Usually described as pressure, squeezing, or fullness, often triggered by physical exertion or stress.
• Shortness of breath: Especially during physical activity or while lying down.
• Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness or lack of energy.
• Pain in other areas: Discomfort may radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back.
• Nausea, dizziness, or sweating: Often accompany other symptoms during a heart attack.

In all instances you should always consult with a medical professional around life expectancy questions.

What If CAD Is Misdiagnosed or Diagnosed Late?

When CAD is misdiagnosed or diagnosed too late, the consequences can be severe. Missed diagnoses can lead to heart attacks or irreversible heart damage.  If you or a loved one suffered harm due to a delay or error in diagnosis, you may be entitled to file a medical negligence claim.

There is a duty of care for medical providers which has acceptable medical standards to be reached. However, if the care you received fell below those standards and caused harm, such as a heart attack, failure or worsened prognosis, you may have ground for a claim.

Damages you suffered are taken into account such as medical costs, lost wages and emotional harm.

 

How To File A ‘No Win, No Fee’ Claim

A medical negligence claim can be complex and it is advisable to have a chat with a solicitor who is experienced in medical negligence.

At First Personal Industry, we work with expert lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, ensuring you get the support you need without financial risk. Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online and we can call you back at a time suitable for you.