Coronary artery disease
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Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a common type of heart disease that occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked due to the build up of cholesterol and other substances, known as plaque. This process is called atherosclerosis. Over time, the build up can reduce blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or other symptoms. In severe cases, it can lead to a heart attack.
Key Points About CAD
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Causes-Symptoms-Diagnosis
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The primary cause of CAD is atherosclerosis. Risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and a family history of heart disease.
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Symptoms can vary and may include chest pain or discomfort (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, heart palpitations, and in some cases, a heart attack. Some people may have no symptoms until the disease has significantly progressed.
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CAD can be diagnosed through various tests, such as electrocardiograms (ECG), stress tests, echocardiograms, coronary angiography, and CT scans.
Treatment-Prevention-Prognosis
Treatment options include lifestyle changes (such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation), medications (like statins, beta-blockers, and aspirin), and procedures or surgeries (such as angioplasty, stent placement, or coronary artery bypass grafting).
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Preventive measures focus on reducing risk factors through a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and controlling blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes.
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With proper management, many people with CAD can lead full and active lives. However, it’s important to adhere to treatment plans and make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of complications such as heart attacks or heart failure.