Coronary disease, also known as coronary artery disease (CAD) and coronary arteriosclerosis, is the most common of heart diseases and the leading cause of death in men and women, according to Medline Plus.
Cause
Cholesterol (fatty substances) can build up in the blood vessels and narrow the passageways (arteries) through which blood flows to the heart, according to Mayo Clinic. The heart must then beat faster to circulate blood, and symptoms of coronary disease develop.
Symptoms
Symptoms of coronary disease include chest pain, difficulty breathing and heart attack.
Warning
If coronary disease is left untreated, heart failure (inability of the heart to pump blood to the body) and arrythmias (irregular heartbeat) can result, according to Medline Plus.
Treatment
According to Mayo Clinic, treatment for coronary disease includes the following: lifestyle changes through improved diet and exercise, medications to lower cholesterol and increase blood flow to the heart, and surgery to unblock arteries. Treatment depends on the severity of coronary disease.
Famous Ties
Famous people suffering with coronary disease include former president Bill Clinton, former vice president Dick Cheney, and CNN talk show host Larry King.
