Mild Coronary Disease

Mild coronary heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease, is a narrowing of the blood vessels to the heart. The narrowing occurs because of plaque buildup from calcium, cholesterol and fat. This condition is called atherosclerosis and it can cause blood clots to form resulting in complete blockage of blood flow to the heart. According to the National Institute of Health, coronary heart disease is the leading killer of men and women in the United States.

Causes

• Mild coronary heart disease causes include smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, heredity, obesity and high amount of cholesterol in the blood. Other factors that may increase your risk include stress, chronic kidney disease, physical inactivity and alcohol abuse.

Symptoms

• The most common sign of mild coronary heart disease is angina. Angina is pain or discomfort in your chest area. This occurs because your heart is not getting enough blood or oxygen. You may also feel pain in your neck, jaw, arm or back. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue and an irregular heartbeat.

Diagnosis

• Symptoms of mild coronary heart disease can mimic other medical conditions so your doctor will want to perform a physical exam and review your medical history. Tests he may perform include an electrocardiogram or EKG. An EKG records electrical activity of your heart and whether it has a normal rhythm. A chest x-ray can show if the heart is enlarged, an indication of heart disease. A stress test involves walking and running on a treadmill while hooked to an ECG machine that records electrical heart activity and can show how the heart reacts under exertion.

Treatment

• Treatment for mild coronary heart disease will include several recommendations by your doctor. When cholesterol levels are high your doctor may prescribe cholesterol lowering drugs such as Lipitor. If blood pressure levels are high, he may prescribe blood pressure medications. A drug called Plavix is used to combat plaque buildup in arteries. Your doctor may recommend a daily aspirin to reduce the chance of blood clots.

Lifestyle Changes

• A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and high in omega 3 fatty acids are recommended for those with mild coronary heart disease. Omega 3 fatty acids can be found in fish such as salmon and tuna and in other foods such as nuts. Limit your fat intake to less than 60 grams a day and your sodium as well by using a salt substitute or purchasing canned foods with low sodium. Exercise regularly by incorporating 30 minutes five days a week to your routine. Walking, swimming, bicycling, gardening and housework can be good exercise activities. Maintain a healthy weight and if you smoke stop. Discuss with your doctor any exercise or dietary changes.