Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
What is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease, occurring when the coronary arteries—responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart—become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and an increased risk of heart attacks.
Causes & Risk Factors
CAD develops over time due to factors such as:
- High cholesterol – Excess LDL (bad) cholesterol can lead to plaque accumulation in the arteries.
- High blood pressure – Increased pressure damages artery walls, making them more prone to plaque buildup.
- Smoking – Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco harm blood vessels.
- Diabetes – High blood sugar levels contribute to artery damage.
- Obesity & Sedentary Lifestyle – Lack of exercise and poor diet contribute to risk factors like high cholesterol and hypertension.
- Genetics – A family history of heart disease can increase susceptibility.
Symptoms of CAD
CAD may develop silently over time, but common symptoms include:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Heart palpitations
- Heart attack (in severe cases)
Diagnosis & Treatment
Early detection of CAD is crucial to managing the disease and preventing complications. Diagnostic methods include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Measures the heart’s electrical activity.
- Stress Test – Assesses heart function under physical exertion.
- Coronary Angiography – Uses X-rays to detect blockages in the arteries.
- CT Scan or MRI – Provides detailed images of the heart and blood vessels.
Treatment Options
Treatment varies based on the severity of CAD and may include:
- Lifestyle Changes – Healthy eating, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and stress management.
- Medications – Cholesterol-lowering drugs, blood thinners, and beta-blockers to improve heart health.
- Procedures & Surgery:
- Angioplasty & Stents – A minimally invasive procedure to open blocked arteries.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) – A surgical procedure that reroutes blood flow around blocked arteries.
Preventing CAD
Prevention is key to reducing the risk of CAD. Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle by:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
- Exercising regularly
- Managing stress effectively
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels
If you experience symptoms or have risk factors for CAD, it’s important to seek medical advice. Our team of cardiovascular specialists is here to provide expert care and tailored treatment plans to keep your heart healthy.
