Understanding Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) develops when the major blood vessels that supply your heart become damaged or diseased, usually due to plaque buildup.
Key Fact: CAD is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death for both men and women in various regions.
Common Symptoms
Chest Pain (Angina)
Feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing in your chest, often during stress or activity.
Shortness of Breath
Feeling like you can't get enough air, especially during physical exertion.
Fatigue
Unusual tiredness, specially during activities that were previously easy.
Heart Attack Symptoms
Crushing chest pain, sweating, and nausea; a medical emergency.
Risk Factors
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Sedentary lifestyle
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a review of your symptoms and various heart monitoring tests.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Echocardiogram
Stress Test
Cardiac Catheterization
Common Treatments
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Cholesterol Drugs: Statins to help lower 'bad' cholesterol and reduce plaque buildup.
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Angioplasty and Stenting: Procedures to open blocked heart arteries and keep them open with a mesh tube.
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Bypass Surgery: Surgical creation of a new path for blood to flow around blocked arteries.