Contents
What is Coronary Artery Disease?
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a medical condition in which the heart’s arteries become blocked or narrow due to a buildup of plaque, causing reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. CAD is one of the most common causes of heart attack and stroke. As plaque accumulates over time, it can reduce the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart and other vital organs.
Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease
Symptoms of CAD include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue and palpitations. Other common symptoms include dizziness, sweating, nausea and a feeling of pressure or squeezing in the chest. The most common symptom of CAD is chest pain or angina. Angina is a feeling of pressure, tightness, burning or heaviness in the chest that may spread to the arms, neck, jaw or upper back.
Treatment of Coronary Artery Disease
Treatment for CAD usually involves lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking and managing stress. In addition, medications may be prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and prevent blood clots. In some cases, coronary artery bypass surgery may be advised to restore adequate blood flow to the heart muscle.
Prevention of Coronary Artery Disease
The best way to prevent CAD is to make healthy lifestyle choices and manage any preexisting medical conditions. Eating a healthy, balanced diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking and avoiding excess alcohol consumption can all help reduce your risk of developing CAD. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol levels is also important for preventing CAD.
Healthy Habits for Coronary Artery Disease Prevention
Living a healthy lifestyle is key to preventing CAD. Eating foods low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium, getting adequate exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Additionally, quitting smoking and avoiding excess alcohol consumption are important for coronary artery disease prevention.