Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) restricts blood flow in the arteries supplying blood to the heart. It occurs when factors like plaque buildup hinder blood flow, increasing the risk of a heart attack. Early detection and treatment of CAD are crucial, as they significantly reduce the risk of heart attack and other complications.

What are the symptoms of CAD?

Without enough arterial blood to your heart, you may experience various symptoms. The most common symptom of CAD is angina(Chest discomfort). Some people describe this discomfort as:

• Heaviness
• Chest pain
• Burning
• Squeezing
• Tightness

However, these can also be mistaken for heartburn or indigestion. Other symptoms of CAD are:

• Pain in the arms or shoulders
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Dizziness

When blood flow is more restricted, more symptoms may appear. If a blockage cuts off blood flow partially or entirely, your heart muscle will start to die if not restored. This is a heart attack.

When you experience symptoms of CAD, especially if they are severe or last longer than five minutes, it’s crucial not to ignore them. Seeking immediate medical attention is necessary as it can prevent further damage to the heart.

What are the symptoms of CAD for women?

Women may experience the above symptoms, but they’re also more likely to have additional symptoms such as:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Jaw pain
• Back pain
• Shortness of breath without feeling pain in the chest

However, research shows men have a higher risk of developing heart disease than women. Due to decreased blood flow, your heart might:

• Weaken.
• Develop abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) or rates.
• Become unable to pump sufficient blood to meet your body’s needs.

Your doctor can detect these abnormalities during diagnosis.

What are the causes of CAD?

Vascular injury is the most common cause of CAD. It may occur due to atherosclerosis, which is when cholesterol or fatty plaque builds up in the vessels that send blood to the heart, causing arteries to become wholly or partially blocked and reducing blood flow. Other rare causes of damage or blockage to a coronary artery can also restrict blood flow to the heart.

What are the risk factors of CAD?

Understanding the risk factors for CAD can help you plan to prevent or decrease the likelihood of developing the disease. Risk factors include:

• High blood cholesterol levels
• High blood pressure
• Emotional stress
• Unhealthy eating habits
• Insulin resistance/hyperglycemia/diabetes mellitus
• Tobacco smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Inactivity
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• History of preeclampsia during pregnancy

Risk for coronary artery disease (CAD) increases with age, starting at age 45 for men and age 55 for women. Additionally, having a family history of CAD further elevates your risk of developing the disease.

How is CAD diagnosed?

Diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD) involves reviewing medical history, conducting a physical examination, and performing various medical tests. These tests include:

• Echocardiogram: This procedure uses ultrasound waves to produce an image of the heart, helping assess whether certain heart areas are functioning correctly.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Monitors the heart’s electrical signals and can help determine if a heart attack has occurred.
• Stress Test: Evaluates the heart’s performance under physical stress and at rest.
• Cardiac Catheterization (Left Heart Catheterization): Involves inserting a catheter into the heart to examine its function and detect blockages.
• Heart CT Scan: Checks for calcium deposits in the arteries, aiding in assessing potential blockages.

What is the treatment for CAD?

It’s crucial to manage risk factors and seek treatment to reduce the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke if you’re diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD). Treatment varies based on your health, risk factors, and overall well-being. For instance, your doctor might prescribe medications to manage high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

Medications are the most common treatment for CAD. Additionally, lifestyle changes can significantly lower your risk of heart disease and stroke, such as:

• Quitting smoking
• Reducing or stopping alcohol consumption
• Exercising regularly
• Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a healthy diet low in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar

If lifestyle changes and medication do not improve your condition, other treatment options are available to enhance blood flow to your heart. Your doctor may recommend one of the following procedures:

• Balloon Angioplasty: This procedure widens blocked arteries by pressing down plaque buildup. It often involves inserting a stent to keep the artery open after the procedure.
• Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery (CABG): This open chest surgery restores blood flow to the heart by grafting a blood vessel to bypass blocked arteries.
• Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP): This noninvasive procedure stimulates the formation of new small blood vessels, allowing blood to bypass clogged arteries naturally.

Each individual’s journey with CAD is unique. However, the earlier you can initiate treatment or implement lifestyle changes, the better your chances of preventing extensive heart damage.