Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common cardiovascular condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. This disease typically develops over time due to the buildup of plaque—a combination of cholesterol, fat, and other substances—inside the arteries.
A lot of people do not know they have CAD, only finding out they have it after a heart attack. This article talks about coronary artery disease, what causes it, and how it is treated.
Why Treat Coronary Artery Disease?
If not properly managed, coronary artery disease can lead to various complications and life-threatening conditions. It can also contribute to a lower quality of life, as the symptoms can cause physical limitations.
Some of the known complications of coronary artery disease are:
- Angina – Chest pain or discomfort resulting from reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
- Heart Attack – When a coronary artery becomes completely blocked, it can cause a heart attack, leading to damage or death of heart tissue.
- Congestive Heart Failure – The heart’s inability to pump blood effectively due to weakened or damaged heart muscles.
- Arrhythmias – Irregular heart rhythms that can result from CAD-related damage to the heart’s electrical system.
Symptoms of Heart Disease
Impaired blood flow to the heart can cause a range of symptoms in individuals, including but not limited to:
- Chest pain, discomfort, pressure, or tightness (angina)
- Shortness of breath during exertion
- Fatigue or weakness, often accompanied by reduced ability to perform daily activities
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Swelling in the lower extremities
- Persistent cough or wheezing, especially with pinkish or bloody mucus
- Nausea, indigestion, or abdominal pain
- Cold sweats, particularly with chest discomfort
What Causes Coronary Artery Disease?
CAD is usually caused by more than one risk factor. Several things – genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors – often come together for it to develop in an individual.
- High Cholesterol – Elevated levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and low levels of HDL (good) cholesterol can lead to the accumulation of plaque in the arteries.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – High blood pressure can damage the arteries over time, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup.
- Smoking – Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that damage the lining of the arteries, making them more prone to plaque formation.
- Stress – Stress-induced inflammation within the body can contribute to the formation of arterial plaque, narrowing the coronary arteries and impeding blood flow to the heart.
- Diabetes – Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease due to elevated blood sugar levels that can damage blood vessels.
- Inactivity – Inactivity can result in decreased cardiovascular fitness, weakening the heart muscle and impairing its ability to pump blood efficiently.
- Obesity – Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing CAD, as it is often associated with other risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
- Family History – A family history of heart disease or coronary artery disease increases the risk of developing the condition.
How is Coronary Artery Disease Treated?
Treatment for coronary artery disease aims to reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall heart health.
Lifestyle Modifications
Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is essential in managing coronary artery disease. This includes regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats, and quitting smoking.
Medications
Various medications may be prescribed to help manage coronary artery disease, including cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins), blood pressure medications, antiplatelet agents, and nitroglycerin to relieve chest pain.
Interventional Procedures
In more severe cases of coronary artery disease, interventional procedures such as angioplasty and stent placement may be recommended to open blocked or narrowed arteries and restore blood flow to the heart.
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
In cases where multiple coronary arteries are significantly blocked, bypass surgery may be necessary. This procedure involves redirecting blood flow around the blocked arteries using blood vessels taken from other parts of the body.
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Following treatment, cardiac rehabilitation programs can help individuals recover from congestive heart failure or heart attack, as well as heart procedures. Through cardiac rehabilitation exercises, patients can improve heart health and reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
Coronary Artery Disease Treatment in Boca Raton, FL
If you are looking for an experienced team of primary care doctors in Palm Beach, choose Advanced Heart & Vascular Institute in Boca Raton. Drs. Eli Levine and Michael Schechter are our board-certified cardiologists, and he has a highly skilled and compassionate team supporting him. We have a state-of-the-art vein clinic and concierge cardiology services to improve your heart health and overall quality of life.
It’s time to get your heart the help it needs. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Levine or Dr. Schechter today by calling (561) 235-5621 or use our request an appointment form. Our friendly staff looks forward to serving you.
