Coronary Artery Disease: What You Need to Know
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. CAD occurs when plaque builds up in your coronary arteries, which are the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. When plaque builds up in the arteries, it makes it difficult for blood to flow through them. This can lead to a heart attack, angina (chest pain), or other heart problems.
What Causes Coronary Artery Disease?
There are many factors that can contribute to the development of CAD, including:
-High blood pressure
-High cholesterol
-Smoking
-Diabetes
-Family history of CAD
-Obesity
-Sedentary lifestyle
-Unhealthy diet
Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease
The symptoms of CAD can differ from person to person. Some people may not experience any symptoms at all until they have a heart attack or other serious complication. For others, the first symptom may be chest pain or discomfort called angina. Angina occurs when the heart muscle isn’t getting enough oxygen-rich blood. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, and lightheadedness or dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
Coronary artery disease is a serious condition that can lead to a heart attack or other complications if left untreated. The good news is that there are things you can do to lower your risk of developing CAD, including exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and quitting smoking. If you think you may be at risk for CAD, you can take steps to prevent it.