Artery Disease

Coronary Artery Disease

What is CAD?

CAD occurs when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, reducing blood flow to the heart.

Pathophysiology:

Plaque (fat, cholesterol, calcium) accumulates in the arterial walls, leading to atherosclerosis. This narrows the arteries and may cause inflammation, reducing oxygen delivery to the heart.

Causes:

* Smoking

* High blood

 Pressure*

 High cholesterol

* Obesity

* Diabetes

* Sedentary lifestyle

Diagnosis:

* Blood tests

* ECG/EKG

* Echocardiogram

* Stress tests

* Coronary Angiography

Signs & symptoms:

* Chest pain

* Shortness of breath

* Fatigue

* Heart attack

Treatment:

1. Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, exercise.

2. Medications: Statins, beta-blockers, aspirin.

3. Procedures: Angioplasty, stent placement, CABG.

Note: Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can significantly improve outcomes.