Coronary Artery Disease
Basics of Angioplasty
Stents or Bypass
What is coronary artery disease?
Coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease or atherosclerotic heart disease, is a condition that occurs when there is a buildup of plaque (a combination of cholesterol, calcium and other substances) in the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. The buildup of plaque narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart and potentially leading to various heart-related complications.
What causes coronary artery disease?
The primary cause of coronary artery disease is atherosclerosis, a process where plaque accumulates on the inner walls of the coronary arteries.
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Several factors contribute to the development of CAD, including:
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High cholesterol levels: High levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad cholesterol," can lead to plaque formation in the arteries.
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High blood pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension can damage the arterial walls, making them more susceptible to plaque accumulation.
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Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains harmful substances that promote the formation of plaque and damage blood vessels.
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Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing CAD due to elevated blood sugar levels damaging the blood vessels.
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Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity is associated with a higher risk of CAD.
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Obesity: Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for CAD.
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Family history: A family history of CAD increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
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Age and gender: Men over the age of 45 and women over the age of 55 are at increased risk of CAD.
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What are the symptoms of coronary artery disease?
The symptoms of CAD can vary depending on the extent of artery narrowing and the presence of other heart-related conditions.
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Some common symptoms include:
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Chest pain or discomfort (angina): Typically, a feeling of pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest. The pain may radiate to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back.
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Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or a feeling of breathlessness, especially during physical activity.
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Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired even with minimal exertion.
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Heart attack (Myocardial Infarction): Sudden, intense chest pain that may radiate to the left arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw. Other symptoms can include sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness.
What treatments are available for coronary artery disease?
The treatment of CAD aims to reduce the risk of heart-related complications, relieve symptoms, and improve the overall quality of life.
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Treatment approaches may include:
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Lifestyle changes: Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management.
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Medications: Doctors may prescribe medications to control cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, manage diabetes, and reduce the risk of blood clots.
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Angioplasty and stenting: These procedures involve widening narrowed coronary arteries using a balloon-tipped catheter and placing a stent to keep the artery open.
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Coronary artery bypass surgery: In severe cases, bypass surgery may be recommended to create alternative routes for blood flow around the blocked arteries.
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Cardiac rehabilitation: A structured program that includes exercise, education, and counselling to help individuals recover from a heart attack or heart-related procedures and manage CAD effectively.
The treatment plan for CAD is individualised based on the severity of the condition, the presence of other medical conditions, and the patient's overall health status. Regular medical check-ups and close monitoring are crucial for managing coronary artery disease effectively.