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.

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 What is Cardiac Arrest?

It occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, cutting off blood flow to the brain and vital organs. It's a medical emergency requiring immediate action.

Pathophysiology:

The heart's electrical system malfunctions, disrupting its normal rhythm. This often leads to ventricular fibrillation, where the heart quivers ineffectively, failing to pump blood.

Causes:

* Coronary artery disease

* Heart attack

* Arrhythmias

* Congenital heart defects

* Severe electrolyte imbalances

* overdose

Signs & symptoms:

* Sudden collapse

* No pulse or breathing

Loss of consciousness

* Sometimes, gasping or seizures

Diagnosis:

* ECG (Electrocardiogram)

* Blood tests

* Imaging if needed

Treatment:

1. Immediate Response:

Call emergency services.

* Start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).

* Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if available.

2. Hospital Care:

* Advanced life support (e.g., intubation, medications like epinephrine).

* Treat underlying causes (angioplasty for blockages, pacemaker for rhythm control).