Description

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common type of heart disease. It affects the major blood vessels that supply blood to the heart are called coronary arteries. In CAD, it reduces the flow of blood to the heart muscle. A buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances in the walls of the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis, which usually causes the disease of the coronary artery. The buildup, called plaque, which causes the arteries to narrow.

Coronary artery disease often develops over many years. Symptoms of lack of blood flow to the heart. They can include chest pain and shortness of breath. A complete blockage of blood flow can cause a heart attack.

The treatment for coronary artery disease may include medications and surgery. Eat a balanced diet, regular exercise and not smoking may help to prevent coronary artery disease and the conditions that can cause.

Disease of the coronary arteries may also be called coronary heart disease.

Symptoms

The symptoms of the disease of the coronary arteries occurs when the heart does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Coronary artery disease symptoms may include:

  • Chest pain called angina. You may feel tightness, pressure, heaviness, tightness or pain in the chest. It can feel like someone is standing on your chest. The chest pain usually affects the center or left side of the chest. The activity or strong emotions can trigger angina. There are different types of angina. The type depends on the cause and if the rest or the medication makes the symptoms improve. In some people, especially women, the pain may be brief or acute and is felt in the neck, arm, or back.
  • Shortness of breath. You may feel like you can't recover the breath.
  • Fatigue . If the heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs, you can feel unusually tired.

The symptoms of coronary artery disease may not be noticed at first. Sometimes the symptoms only happen when the heart is beating hard, such as during exercise. As the coronary arteries continue to narrow, the symptoms can get more severe or frequent.

A completely blocked coronary artery will cause a heart attack. Common symptoms of heart attack include:

  • Chest pain that may feel like pressure, pressure, tightness or pain.
  • The pain or discomfort that spreads to the shoulders, arms, back, neck, jaw, teeth, or sometimes the upper part of the abdomen.
  • Cold sweats.
  • Fatigue.
  • Heartburn.
  • Nausea.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness.

Pain in the chest is usually the most common symptom of a heart attack. But for some people, such as women, the elderly, and people with diabetes, the symptoms may seem unrelated to a heart attack. For example, you may have nausea or a very brief pain in the neck or back. Some people who have a heart attack not notice the symptoms.

When to see a doctor

If you think you're having a heart attack, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number. If you do not have access to emergency medical services, have someone drive you to the nearest hospital. The unit itself only as the last option.

Smoking or having high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity or a family history of heart disease makes it more likely to have coronary artery disease. If you are at high risk of coronary artery disease, talk to your health professional. You may need tests to check the narrowing of the arteries and coronary artery disease.

Causes

Coronary artery disease is caused by the buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances in the walls of the arteries of the heart. This condition is called atherosclerosis. The buildup is called plaque. The plate can cause the arteries to become narrow, by blocking the flow of blood. The plate can also burst, causing a blood clot.

Some of the causes of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease are:

  • Diabetes or insulin resistance.
  • The high blood pressure.
  • The lack of exercise.
  • Smoking or consumption of tobacco.

Risk factors

Coronary artery disease is common.

Coronary artery disease risk factors you cannot control include:

  • Age. Getting older increases the risk of damage and narrowing of the arteries.
  • Birth sex. Men are generally at greater risk of coronary artery disease. However, the risk for women increases after menopause.
  • The history of the family. A family history of heart disease makes it more likely to have coronary artery disease. This is especially true if a father, mother, brother, sister, or child had heart disease at an early age. The risk is higher if your father or brother had a heart disease before 55 years of age, or if your mother or sister who developed before the age of 65 years old.

Coronary artery disease risk factors that can be controlled are:

  • The habit of smoking. If you smoke, stop smoking. Smoking is bad for the health of the heart. People who smoke have a higher risk of heart disease. Breathing second-hand smoke also increases the risk.
  • The high blood pressure. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause the arteries to hard and rigid. This can lead to atherosclerosis, which causes the disease of the coronary artery.
  • The cholesterol. Too much "bad" cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of atherosclerosis. The "bad" cholesterol called low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Not enough of the "good" cholesterol called high-density lipoprotein (HDL-cholesterol), also leads to atherosclerosis.
  • Diabetes. Diabetes increases the risk of coronary artery disease. Type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease share some risk factors, such as obesity and high blood pressure.
  • Obesity. Too much fat on the body is bad for your health in general. Obesity can lead to type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Ask your health care team what is a healthy weight for you.
  • Chronic kidney disease. Have long-term kidney disease increases the risk of coronary artery disease.
  • Not getting enough exercise. Physical activity is important for good health. Lack of exercise is linked to coronary artery disease and some of its risk factors.
  • A great amount of stress . Emotional stress can damage your arteries and worsen other risk factors for coronary artery disease.
  • Unhealthy diet. Eat foods with lots of saturated fats, trans fats, salt and sugar can increase the risk of coronary artery disease.
  • The consumption of Alcohol. The excessive use of alcohol can cause damage to the heart muscle. You can also worsen other risk factors for coronary artery disease.
  • Number of hours of sleep. Too little sleep and too much sleep both have been linked with an increased risk of heart disease.

Risk factors often occur together. A risk factor that can trigger another. When grouped together, some risk factors that make them more likely to develop coronary artery disease. For example, the metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and high levels of triglycerides. The metabolic syndrome increases the risk of coronary artery disease.

Other possible risk factors for coronary artery disease may include:

  • The pauses in breathing during sleep, called obstructive sleep apnea. This condition causes breathing to stop and start during sleep. May cause sudden drop in the levels of oxygen in the blood. The heart must work harder to pump blood. The blood pressure rises.
  • Increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP). This protein appears to be greater than usual amounts when there is inflammation somewhere in the body. High levels of hs-CRP may be a risk factor for heart disease. It is thought that, as the coronary arteries narrow, the hs-CRP level in the blood rises.
  • High levels of triglycerides. This is a type of fat in the blood. High levels may increase the risk of coronary artery disease, especially for women.
  • High levels of homocysteine. Homocysteine is a substance that the body uses to make protein and to build and maintain tissue. But high levels of homocysteine may increase the risk of coronary artery disease.
  • The Pre-Eclampsia. This complication in the pregnancy cause high blood pressure and increased protein in the urine. This can lead to a higher risk of heart disease later in life.
  • Other complications of pregnancy. Diabetes or high blood pressure during pregnancy are known risk factors for coronary artery disease.
  • Certain autoimmune diseases. People who have conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus have an increased risk of atherosclerosis.

Complications

The complications of coronary artery disease may include:

  • Chest pain, also called angina. This is a symptom of coronary artery disease. But it can also be a complication of a worsening of the CAD. The pain in the chest that happens when the arteries become narrow, and the heart does not receive enough blood.
  • Heart attack. A heart attack can occur if the atherosclerosis causes a blood clot. A blood clot can block the flow of blood. The lack of blood flow can damage the heart muscle. The amount of damage depends in part on the rapidity with which they are treated.
  • Heart failure. The narrowing of the arteries in the heart or high blood pressure can slowly make the heart weak or stiff. This may make it more difficult for the heart to pump blood.
  • The irregular heart rhythms, called arrhythmias. If the heart does not receive enough blood, changes in the heart of signaling that can happen. This can cause irregular heartbeats.

Diagnosis

To diagnose coronary artery disease, a health care professional examines. Normally you will be asked questions about your medical history and symptoms. If you have symptoms of coronary artery disease, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, you may do tests to check your general state of health.

Tests

The tests to diagnose or see coronary artery disease include:

  • Blood tests. Blood tests can check for blood sugar and cholesterol levels. A high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) test checks for a protein linked to inflammation of the arteries.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). This quick test checks the electrical activity of the heart. It is shown how the heart is beating. Sticky patches called electrodes attached to the chest and sometimes the arms and legs. The wires connect the electrodes to a computer, that prints or displays the results of the test. The ECG signal patterns can show if you have had or are having a heart attack.
  • The echocardiogram. This test uses sound waves to show the flow of blood through the heart. Parts of the heart that moves weakly could be caused by a lack of oxygen or a heart attack. This can be a sign of disease of the coronary arteries or other conditions.
  • Exercise stress test. If your symptoms usually occur during exercise, your healthcare provider may recommend this test. You walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while your heart is turned on. Because exercise makes your heart pump harder and faster than it does during the most of the daily activities, an exercise stress test can reveal problems of heart that might otherwise be lost. If you can't do the exercise, you may be given a drug that affects the heart as the exercise you do. Sometimes an echocardiogram is done during an exercise stress test.
  • Nuclear stress test. This test shows how the blood moves to the heart at rest and during activity. Uses a small amount of radioactive material called a tracer or tracer. The substance is administered INTRAVENOUSLY. An imaging machine takes images of how the tracer moves through the arteries of the heart. This helps to identify areas of poor blood flow or damage in the heart.
  • A ct scan of the heart. A ct scan of the heart may show calcium deposits and blockages in the arteries of the heart. Calcium deposits can narrow the arteries. Sometimes the dye was administered IV during this test. The dye helps to create detailed images of the arteries of the heart. If the dye is used, the test is called a CT coronary angiography.
  • Cardiac catheterization and angiography. This test can see blockages in the arteries of the heart. A doctor inserts a long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or wrist. Is guided into the heart. Contrast dye flows through the catheter into the arteries in the heart. The dye helps the arteries to show up more clearly on X-ray images and video. Heart of the treatments can be done during this test.

Treatment

The treatment for coronary artery disease may include:

  • Lifestyle changes such as not smoking, eating healthy and exercising more.
  • Drugs.
  • The heart of a procedure or surgery of the heart.

Drugs

There are many medications available to treat coronary artery disease, including:

  • The cholesterol medicine. Your healthcare provider may recommend this medication to lower the LDL "bad" cholesterol and reduce the buildup of plaque in the arteries. These drugs include statins, niacin, fibrates and bile acid sequestrants.
  • The aspirin.Aspirin helps to thin the blood and prevent the formation of blood clots. Daily low-dose aspirin therapy may be recommended for the primary prevention of heart attack or stroke in some people. The daily use of aspirin can have serious side effects, such as bleeding in the stomach and intestines. Do not start taking a daily aspirin without talking with your health care team.
  • Beta-blockers. These drugs slow the heart rate and blood pressure. If you have had a heart attack, beta-blockers may reduce the risk of heart attacks in the future.
  • Calcium channel blockers. One of these medications may be suggested if you are unable to take beta-blockers or beta-blockers does not work for you. Calcium channel blockers can help reduce the pain in the chest.
  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ace) inhibitors and angiotensin 2 receptor blockers (Arbs). These medicines lower blood pressure. They can help keep the coronary artery disease from getting worse.
  • The nitroglycerin. This medication widens the arteries of the heart. It can help control or reduce pain in the chest. Nitroglycerin is available in the form of a pill, spray or a patch.
  • Ranolazine. This medication may help people with long-term pain in the chest. You may be prescribed with or in place of a beta-blocker.

The aspirin. Aspirin helps to thin the blood and prevent the formation of blood clots. Daily low-dose aspirin therapy may be recommended for the primary prevention of heart attack or stroke in some people.

The daily use of aspirin can have serious side effects, such as bleeding in the stomach and intestines. Do not start taking a daily aspirin without talking with your health care team.

Surgeries or other procedures

You can perform a surgery to repair a blocked artery and improve the blood flow. Surgeries or procedures for coronary artery disease may include:

  • Coronary angioplasty and stent placement. This treatment opens the blockage of blood vessels in the heart. A small balloon in a thin tube, called a catheter, is used to widen an obstructed artery and improve the blood flow. A small wire mesh tube called a stent may be placed to keep the artery open. The majority of stents coated with drugs that help keep the artery open. This treatment is also called percutaneous coronary intervention.
  • Coronary artery Bypass graft (CABG). This is a type of open-heart surgery. During CABG, a surgeon takes a vein or artery from another part of the body. The surgeon uses a blood vessel to create a new path for the blood to go around a blockage or narrowing of the coronary artery. The surgery increases the flow of blood to the heart.

If you have had a coronary bypass surgery, your healthcare professional may suggest cardiac rehabilitation. This is a program of the education, counseling and exercise training designed to help improve your health after heart surgery.

Alternative medicine

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of unsaturated fatty acid. It is believed that it can reduce inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation has been linked to coronary artery disease. However, the reasons for and against omega-3 fatty acids for heart disease continue to be the object of study.

Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include:

  • Fish and fish oil. Fish and fish oil are the most effective sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty fish — such as salmon, herring and light canned tuna — have the most omega-3 fatty acids. Supplements of fish oil may offer benefits, but the evidence is stronger for the consumption of fish.
  • Flax and flaxseed oil. Flax and flaxseed oil contain a type of omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). WING contains small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids that fish and fish oil. ALA may help reduce cholesterol and improve heart health. But the research is mixed. Some studies have not found flax and linseed oil to be as effective as fish. Flaxseed also contains a large amount of fiber, which has several health benefits.
  • Other oils. The alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), can also be found in canola oil, soybeans and soybean oil.

Other supplements and foods can help lower blood pressure or cholesterol — both risk factors for coronary artery disease. Some of those who can work are:

  • Barley.
  • Psyllium, one type of fiber.
  • Oats, a type of fiber that includes beta-glucans and is located in the oatmeal and whole oats.
  • Garlic.
  • Plant sterols, found in supplements and some margarines, such as the Promise, the Smart Balance and Benecol.

Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any herbs, supplements or medicines obtained without a prescription.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Making certain lifestyle changes can help keep your arteries healthy and can prevent or delay coronary artery disease. Try these tips for a healthy heart:

  • Do not smoke or use tobacco. Smoking is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease. Nicotine constricts the blood vessels and forces the heart to work harder. Not smoking is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of a heart attack. If you need help to stop smoking, talk with your health care team.
  • Eat heart-healthy foods. Choose plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit the amount of sugar, salt and saturated fat. Eat one or two servings of fish per week can also help to keep the heart healthy.
  • Get regular exercise. Exercise helps to control weight and controlling diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure — all risk factors for coronary artery disease. Try to get 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Ask your health care team what amount and type of exercise is best for you.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases your risk of coronary artery disease. Losing even a small amount of weight can help to reduce risk factors for coronary artery disease. Ask your healthcare team what is the best weight is for you.
  • Control of blood pressure. Adults should have their blood pressure by a health care professional at least every two years. You may need controls more frequently if you have a history of high blood pressure. Ask your healthcare professional the blood pressure goal is the best for you.
  • Control your cholesterol. Ask your health care team how often you need a cholesterol test. Lifestyle changes and medicines may be recommended for the control of cholesterol.
  • Check your blood sugar. If you have diabetes, carefully managing your blood sugar can help reduce the risk of coronary artery disease.
  • Avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, that means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
  • Sleep well. Lack of sleep can increase the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. Adults should aim to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily.
  • Manage stress. Find ways to help reduce emotional stress. Do more exercise, the practice of mindfulness and connecting with others in support groups are some of the ways to reduce stress.

Regular health checkups are also important. Some of the main risk factors for coronary artery disease — high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes — do not have any symptoms in the early stages. The early detection and treatment can help to keep your heart healthy. Also, ask about the recommended vaccinations, such as an annual flu vaccine.

Prevention

The lifestyle habits, it is used to treat coronary artery disease may also help prevent it. A healthy lifestyle can help keep your arteries strong and clear of blockages. To improve the health of the heart, follow these tips:

  • Do not smoke or use tobacco.
  • Limit or do not drink alcohol.
  • Control of blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Exercise and stay active.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Eating a low-fat, low-salt diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  • Reduce and manage stress.
  • Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily.

Preparing for your appointment

If you have symptoms of coronary artery disease or any of the risk factors, make an appointment for a health checkup. You may be sent to a physician skilled in diseases of the heart, called a cardiologist.

Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment.

What you can do

  • Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. When you make the appointment, ask if there is something that you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet. For example, you may be asked not to eat or drink anything for a couple of hours before a cholesterol test.
  • Write down the symptoms you are experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to coronary artery disease.
  • Enter your medical information, including other conditions, and family history of heart disease.
  • Bring a list of medications with you to your appointment. Include the dose.
  • Ask a family member or friend to go with you to the appointment, if possible. An extra person can help you remember the details of the appointment.
  • Write questions to ask their health care team.

Questions to ask your health care provider at your first appointment are:

  • What is the cause of my symptoms?
  • What tests do I need?
  • You should see a specialist?
  • Do I need to change my activity or diet while I wait for my next appointment?
  • When should I call 911 or emergency medical help for symptoms?

If you are sent to a cardiologist for disease of the coronary artery, you may want to ask these questions:

  • What is my risk of long-term complications of coronary artery disease?
  • What treatment do you recommend it?
  • If I need a drug, what are the possible side effects?
  • I need surgery? Why or why not?
  • What diet and lifestyle changes should I make?
  • How often will I need follow-up visits?
  • I have other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions?

Don't hesitate to ask additional questions.

What to expect from your doctor

A health professional who sees you by disease of the coronary artery may ask:

  • What are your symptoms?
  • When did you begin to have symptoms?
  • The symptoms worsened over time?
  • Do you have pain in the chest or difficulty breathing?
  • If so, what causes the pain in the chest feel like?
  • Exercise or activity to make the symptoms worse?
  • Does anyone in your family have heart disease or high blood pressure?
  • Have you been diagnosed with other health conditions?
  • What medications do you take?
  • How much exercise in a typical week?
  • What is your usual in the daily diet?
  • Do you or do you smoke? How much? If you quit smoking?, when?
  • Do you drink alcohol? How much?

What you can do in the meantime

It is never too early to make changes healthy lifestyle, such as quitting smoking, eating healthy foods and getting more exercise. These habits protect against coronary artery disease and its complications, including heart attack and stroke.

Symptoms and treatment of Coronary artery disease