Coronary Artery Disease: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease is a common heart condition. It happens when the blood vessels that supply your heart become narrow or blocked. As a result, your heart may not get enough oxygen-rich blood. This can lead to chest pain, heart attacks, or other serious problems. According to the World Health Organization, coronary artery disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. Early detection and treatment can help you live a healthier life.

Common Symptoms

Many people do not notice symptoms at first. However, as the disease gets worse, you may feel:

Chest pain or discomfort, often called angina

Shortness of breath, especially during activity

Fatigue or feeling very tired

Pain in the neck, jaw, shoulder, or arm

Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat

Sometimes, the first sign is a heart attack. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to any new or unusual symptoms.

Major Causes and Risk Factors

Coronary artery disease develops over time. The main cause is a buildup of fatty deposits, called plaque, inside the arteries. This process is known as atherosclerosis. Several risk factors can increase your chances of developing CAD:

High blood pressure

High cholesterol levels

Smoking tobacco

Diabetes or high blood sugar

Being overweight or obese

Lack of physical activity

Unhealthy diet, especially one high in saturated fats

Family history of heart disease

Older age

Stress

Because some risk factors can be controlled, making healthy choices can help lower your risk.

Diagnosis Methods

If your doctor suspects coronary artery disease, several tests may help confirm the diagnosis. For example, your doctor may recommend:

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to check your heart’s rhythm

Stress test to see how your heart works during exercise

Blood tests to measure cholesterol and blood sugar

Echocardiogram to look at your heart’s structure

Coronary angiography, which uses X-rays to view blood flow in the arteries

Early diagnosis can help prevent serious problems, such as heart attacks.

Treatment Options

Treatment for coronary artery disease depends on how severe your condition is. Your doctor may suggest:

Lifestyle changes, such as eating a heart-healthy diet and exercising

Medications to lower blood pressure, cholesterol, or prevent blood clots

Procedures like angioplasty to open blocked arteries

Surgery, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), in severe cases

With the right treatment, many people manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of future heart problems.

Lifestyle and Prevention Tips

Making healthy choices can help prevent coronary artery disease or slow its progress. For instance, you can:

Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Limit foods high in saturated fat, salt, and sugar

Exercise regularly, such as walking 30 minutes most days

Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke

Maintain a healthy weight

Manage stress with relaxation techniques

Take medications as prescribed by your doctor

Because prevention is key, start making small changes today for a healthier heart.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice chest pain, shortness of breath, or other heart disease symptoms, seek medical help right away. Even if your symptoms are mild, it is wise to talk to your doctor. Early care can prevent serious complications. In case of sudden chest pain, fainting, or severe shortness of breath, call emergency services immediately.

For personalized advice and early detection of coronary artery disease, consult a cardiologist at PRANAAH HOSPITAL. Your heart health matters, so take action today.