The coronary arteries are those blood vessels that supply the heart muscle with the blood, oxygen and nutrients necessary to keep it functioning. These blood vessels can become blocked with fatty buildup of plaque in a process called atherosclerosis. When they become blocked, the blood supply to the heart muscle is either reduced or stopped and can lead to a heart attack. Atherosclerosis can be caused by a number of different things, such as high blood pressure, smoking, inactivity and obesity. Each of these activities or conditions causes damage to the walls of the arteries, accelerating the process of atherosclerosis. Coronary artery blockage can be treated in many different ways, and according to Mayo Clinic, treatments may be tailored to the patient, based on the severity of the condition.
Medication
A variety of different drugs are used to treat coronary artery disease, with many different treatment goals. Some medications are designed to reduce LDL cholesterol in the blood, which is a primary component of the atherosclerotic plaque that causes the build. Other medications may be designed to reduce blood clotting, such as aspirin. Some medications will help control blood pressure, a serious risk factor for developing coronary artery disease. Beta blockers help the heart function optimally by controlling both the rhythm and strength of contraction, thereby reducing blood pressure and heart rate. Some drugs are designed to dilate the blood vessels and allow greater and easier blood flow to the heart. Even vitamins, such as B6 and B12, can aid in reducing the atherosclerosis process.
Cardiac Catheterization
Cardiac catheterization is a mildly invasive procedure during which a long, flexible tube is inserted into one of the arteries of a leg and is advanced up into the coronary arteries. The doctor who inserts a catheter into the coronary arteries is assisted by the use of fluoroscopy, a special type of x-ray. The cardiac catheter is able to measure blood pressure and blood flow, as well as oxygen levels and is in a position to take part in further treatments, such as angioplasty.
Coronary Angioplasty
Once a catheter has been inserted into the coronary arteries and it encounters a blockage, a small balloon on the tip of the catheter can be inflated. This is coronary angioplasty or balloon angioplasty. When inflated, this balloon can open clogged arteries by pushing the walls outward, helping to restore blood flow.
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
If it is determined that a less invasive option is unavailable, coronary artery bypass surgery may be performed. In this surgery the chest is opened and the heart is exposed, allowing the surgeon direct access to the blocked coronary arteries. Typically, a vein is harvested from the patient's leg and is used to bypass the blocked coronary arteries, restoring blood flow to the heart.
Lifestyle Changes
In virtually any one who is diagnosed with coronary artery disease, healthy lifestyle changes are an important part of any treatment regimen. These lifestyle changes may include a heart healthy diet, help with quitting smoking and an exercise program. These healthy lifestyle changes will be critical in preventing further problems and recurrence of atherosclerosis.
