Understanding Coronary Artery Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in the United States that can lead to death. It occurs when plaque builds up inside the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle, making it harder for blood to flow through. Over time, this can lead to serious complications like heart attack or heart failure.

What Causes Coronary Artery Disease?

The main cause of CAD is a process called atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of a sticky, fatty substance called plaque inside the arteries. This buildup can start as early as childhood and progress over time, narrowing the arteries and reducing blood flow to the heart.

Several factors can increase your risk of developing CAD, including:

• High cholesterol and triglyceride levels

• High blood pressure

• Smoking or vaping

• Diabetes

• Obesity and being overweight

• Lack of exercise

• Unhealthy diet

• Stress, depression, and anger

Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

In the early stages of CAD, you may not experience any symptoms. As the plaque continues to build up and restrict blood flow, however, you may start to notice:

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina)

• Shortness of breath, especially during exercise

• Fatigue

• Discomfort in the shoulders, arms, back, neck, or jaw

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are severe or persist, it's important to seek medical attention right away.

Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease

To diagnose CAD, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history and symptoms. They may also order one or more of the following tests:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG) to assess heart damage and electrical activity

• Stress test to monitor your heart during exercise

• Blood tests to check cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood sugar levels

• Cardiac catheterization to visualize the inside of your heart and arteries

• Add a CT scan of the coronary arteries

Treatment Options for Coronary Artery Disease

Treatment for CAD may include lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures. Your doctor will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and risk factors.

Lifestyle changes that can help manage CAD include:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars

• Getting regular exercise

• Quitting smoking

• Managing stress

• Maintaining a healthy weight

Medications that may be prescribed to treat CAD include:

• Aspirin and other anti-clotting drugs

• Beta-blockers to lower heart rate and blood pressure

• Statins to lower cholesterol levels

• Nitroglycerin to widen blood vessels and improve blood flow

In some cases, medical procedures may be necessary to treat CAD. These may include:

• Angioplasty and stenting to open blocked arteries

• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery to restore blood flow to the heart

Preventing Coronary Artery Disease

While some risk factors for CAD, like age and family history, cannot be changed, there are many steps you can take to lower your risk:

• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins

• Exercise regularly

• Don't smoke or use tobacco products

• Manage conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Limit alcohol consumption

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga

By making these lifestyle changes and working with your healthcare provider to manage any underlying health conditions, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing CAD and its complications.

If you have been diagnosed with CAD, it's important to follow your treatment plan and attend regular check-ups with your doctor. With proper management and care, many people with CAD are able to live long, healthy lives.

For more information about coronary artery disease, visit:

• American Heart Association - Coronary Artery Disease

• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute - Coronary Heart Disease

• Mayo Clinic - Coronary Artery Disease