Coronary artery disease (CAD)

Overview

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common heart condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries. These arteries supply blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart muscle. The primary cause of CAD is the gradual buildup of cholesterol deposits (plaques) in the arterial walls. Inflammation also plays a role in the disease process.

Types of Coronary artery disease (CAD)

 Atherosclerotic CAD:

1. Obstructive CAD:
   • Coronary arteries are more than 50% narrowed due to plaque buildup.
2. Nonobstructive CAD:
   • Coronary arteries are less than 50% narrowed.

B. Nonatherosclerotic CAD:

1. Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD):
   • A rare condition where the artery wall tears spontaneously.

Causes of Coronary artery disease (CAD)

• Cholesterol Deposition (Atherosclerosis): Plaque buildup in coronary arteries.

Risk Factors of Coronary artery disease (CAD)

• High blood pressure
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Family history of heart disease
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Age and gender (men are at higher risk)
• Increased stress.

Symptoms of Coronary artery disease (CAD)

Preventions of Coronary artery disease (CAD)

• Adopt a heart-healthy diet (low in fat and salt).
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Quit smoking.
• Manage blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
• Reduce stress.
• Maintain a healthy weight.

Diagnosis of Coronary artery disease (CAD)

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Echocardiogram
• Nuclear stress test
• Cardiac catheterization
• Lipid profile and blood glucose tests.

Treatment for Coronary artery disease (CAD)

• Lifestyle modifications
• Medications (cholesterol-lowering drugs, anticoagulants, beta blockers, nitrates, ACE inhibitors, ARBs)
• Invasive procedures (angioplasty, stent placement, coronary artery bypass graft).

When to seek medical attention ?

• Seek immediate medical attention for heart attack symptoms.
• Regular follow-up with a cardiologist for CAD management.