Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in the United States. More than 18 million American adults are affected by CAD, making it the nation's leading cause of death.
CAD occurs when the coronary arteries, or blood vessels, narrow. That narrowing can restrict blood flow to the heart, leading to shortness of breath and chest pain. Without treatment, the vessels can become completely or nearly completely blocked.
Let's Talk About Plaque
CAD does damage to the larger coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart, according to the
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. That damage is caused by the buildup of plaque in the artery walls, limiting or even stopping the blood flow to the heart and other parts of the body.
Plaque is a fatty substance that contains cholesterol deposits that clog the arteries, causing them to slowly narrow. This is also known as
atherosclerosis.
How to Know if You Are at Risk
What makes coronary artery disease difficult to diagnose is the symptoms may vary from person to person. However, there are crucial symptoms that everyone should know about. According to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, any of the following are symptoms of CAD:
- Angina, or chest pain. When the arteries leading blood flow to the heart narrow due to plaque buildup
- Heart attack. When blood flow to the heart is blocked
- Heart failure. When the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you are at risk for CAD or have identified any symptoms, talking to your provider is an important next step. They can perform tests that can diagnose CAD and monitor your heart, including:
- Chest X-ray: pictures of your heart and lungs
- Coronary angiogram: an X-ray focused on the blockage and flow of blood through your arteries
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): a scan that measures the electrical activity of your heartbeat
- Echocardiogram: an ultrasound picture of your heart
Can I Live a Healthy Life With CAD?
It is possible for those with CAD to live a healthy life. However, there are heart-healthy lifestyle changes that must be made in order to lower the risk of CAD. Your Union Health cardiology specialist might recommend the following:
- Healthy eating. A heart-healthy diet includes fruits and vegetables, limiting saturated fats, salt, and added sugars.
- Quality sleep. A good night's sleep is usually 7 to 9 hours a day.
- Routine physical activity. Being active can help with CAD risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and obesity.
- Stress management. Learning how to relax and manage stress can help with your physical health.
If you are at risk for coronary artery disease, schedule an appointment with a Union Health cardiology specialist to go over your treatment options.
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