Coronary artery disease (CAD) is also known as coronary heart disease (CHD). This condition happens when arteries are blocked and blood is unable to deliver enough oxygen to the heart. The result can be a heart attack or death. You can help prevent or control CAD by making lifestyle changes to reduce controllable risk factors.
Cause
CAD is caused by damage to the major arteries through which blood flows to the heart. Substances such as cholesterol, fat and calcium travel in the bloodstream, stick to artery walls and contribute to a build-up of plaque.
Effect
Plaque hardens the arteries, and causes clotting and blockages that prevent blood from flowing freely and bringing oxygen to the heart.
Risk Factors
Aging, genetic predisposition, smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, stress and lack of physical activity are risk factors for CAD. Controlling some of these risk factors can help prevent CAD.
Diagnosis
In addition to a physical exam and blood testing, your doctor might order other tests before diagnosing CAD. These could include electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, stress test or CT scan.
Treatment
In addition to lifestyle changes, treatments such as cholesterol-lowering drugs and other medications can be used to reduce your risk factors and treat CAD.
Significance
CAD is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, and the most common of several types of heart disease, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
