The hardening of arteries is a result of plaque build up of the inner walls of the arteries called atherosclerosis and can be screened for with a non treadmill stress test or diagnosed through a cardiac catheterization. Atherosclerosis causes a narrowing of arteries vital in supplying blood to the heart itself. When blood does not properly supply the heart muscle with oxygen the tissue becomes oxygen deficient and cause chest discomfort (angina pectoris), symptoms can also include discomfort in the upper abdomen, left arm, neck, or jaw. If coronary disease is severe enough, it can affect the heart’s function as a pump and fluid retention. Eventually fluid congestion causes a buildup of fluid in the lungs and can contribute to a cough and breathlessness. If kidneys receive a reduced blood flow for any reason, this will limit the amount of salt and water excreted. When the heart does not pump properly a patient may become weak and often feel tired. To better understand your father’s condition we recommend making an appointment with your doctor who can run a series of tests, possibly including an echocardiogram, and a referral to a heart failure specialist if necessary.