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Types of Coronary Artery Disease

Although older male smokers with other health conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, are at the greatest risk for coronary artery disease, any one can develop this disorder and its life-threatening complications, including a heart attack.

  1. Heart Disease

    • Coronary artery disease is also referred to as heart disease. It occurs as a result of atherosclerosis, which occurs when arteries become clogged or narrowed by fat cells, thereby restricting an adequate supply of blood to the heart.

    The Disease

    • Coronary heart disease is a major problem in developed nations and is becoming a concern in developing countries, too. It is the leading cause of death in the U.S., where it is known to affect more than 13 million Americans.

    Unstable Angina

    • Unstable angina is characterized by chest pains, which can lead to a heart attack. The condition gets its name from the frequent changes in the pattern of angina, and it typically doesn't show symptoms of a heart attack. Oral medication is used to treat the pain, and other medical procedures are employed if the disease is considered acute.

    Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)

    • A non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is a type of heart attack that is typically discovered by an electrocardiogram test. It usually does damage to heart muscles.

    ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI)

    • An ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a form of coronary artery disease that is marked by a blocked blood supply for a long period of time. An ECG typically identifies damage to large parts of the heart muscle.

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