What Is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as ischemic heart disease (IHD), occurs when the main blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart (coronary arteries) become narrowed or blocked. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and other signs and symptoms. It's a major cause of death worldwide, but can often be prevented or treated with lifestyle changes, medications and, when needed, surgical procedures.

Types of CAD

Coronary artery disease can take different forms, including:

* Stable angina. This is the most common type of CAD. It causes chest pain when your heart muscle doesn't get enough blood. Angina usually goes away with rest or medication.

* Unstable angina. This is a more serious form of CAD that can lead to a heart attack if not treated. Unstable angina causes chest pain that's more frequent, more severe and longer-lasting than stable angina. It may not go away with rest or medication.

* Heart attack. This occurs when a blood clot completely blocks a coronary artery, cutting off blood flow to part of the heart muscle. Heart attacks can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, vomiting and other signs and symptoms. They can be fatal if not treated promptly.

* Sudden cardiac death. This occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. Sudden cardiac death is often caused by a heart attack, but it can also be caused by other heart problems.

Risk factors for CAD

Several factors can increase your risk of developing CAD, including:

* High blood pressure.

* High cholesterol levels.

* Smoking.

* Diabetes.

* Being overweight or obese.

* Physical inactivity.

* Family history of CAD.

* Age.

* Gender (Men are generally at higher risk than women).

Preventing CAD

You can help prevent CAD by managing risk factors such as:

* Eating a healthy diet. A healthy diet for heart health includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Choose lean proteins, such as fish and chicken, and limit your intake of unhealthy fats, such as saturated and trans fats.

* Exercising regularly. Regular exercise can help you lose weight, lower blood pressure, and reduce your cholesterol levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

* Quitting smoking. Smoking damages the heart and blood vessels. Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of CAD.

* Managing your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about medication and lifestyle changes that can help you control it.

* Controlling your cholesterol levels. If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend medication, such as a statin, to lower your levels.

* Managing your diabetes. Diabetes is a major risk factor for CAD. If you have diabetes, it's important to manage your blood sugar levels closely.

* Maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of CAD. Losing weight can help reduce your risk.

Treating CAD

If you have CAD, treatment will depend on the severity of your condition. Treatment options may include:

* Medications to improve blood flow to your heart. These include nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and statins.

* Angioplasty and stenting. This procedure is used to open up narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. During angioplasty, a balloon is inflated inside the artery to widen it. A stent, which is a small metal mesh tube, may also be inserted to help keep the artery open.

* Coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). This surgery involves taking a blood vessel from another part of your body and using it to bypass a blocked coronary artery.

Your doctor will work with you to develop the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Outlook for CAD

With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many people with CAD can live full and active lives.