Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease (CHD), is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death worldwide. CAD occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, become hardened and narrowed due to the buildup of cholesterol and other materials, known as plaque, on their inner walls. This process is known as atherosclerosis and can reduce blood flow to the heart, causing chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. In severe cases, it can lead to a heart attack.
Causes
The primary cause of CAD is atherosclerosis. Factors that contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and CAD include:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Unhealthy diet
- Aging
- Family history of heart disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of CAD may not be evident until the artery is significantly narrowed or blocked. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue with exertion
- Heart attack
Diagnosis
Diagnosing CAD involves evaluating symptoms, medical history, and performing several tests, including:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
- Echocardiogram
- Stress Test
- Coronary Angiography
- Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)
Treatment
Treatment for CAD aims to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications like heart attacks. Treatment strategies include lifestyle changes, medications, and possibly surgical interventions.
Lifestyle Changes
- Quitting smoking
- Eating a heart-healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Weight management
- Managing stress
Medications
- Cholesterol-modifying medications
- Aspirin and other antiplatelet drugs
- Beta blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Nitroglycerin
- ACE inhibitors and ARBs
Surgical Interventions
Prevention
Preventing CAD involves controlling risk factors through lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medications. Preventive measures include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Regular physical activity
- A heart-healthy diet
- Not smoking
- Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
See Also
External Links
This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.