Understanding Coronary Artery Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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Understanding Coronary
and Health

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a type of cardiovascular disease that occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart, become narrowed and blocked due to a buildup of fatty deposits, known as plaque. This can interrupt or even stop blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain and an increased risk of heart attack.

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Causes of Coronary Artery Disease

The most common cause of CAD is the buildup of plaque due to a variety of lifestyle and environmental factors, such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes. Other factors that can increase the risk of developing CAD include family history, age, gender, poor diet, and physical inactivity.

Signs and Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

CAD can cause a variety of symptoms, including chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats. If the coronary artery becomes completely blocked, it can cause a heart attack.

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How is Coronary Artery Disease Treated?

CAD is treated with a combination of lifestyle changes and/or medications, depending on the severity of the condition. Lifestyle changes can include quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Medications such as statins, blood thinners, and anti-clotting drugs can also be prescribed to reduce plaque buildup and lower the risk of heart attack. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

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Health Implications of Coronary Artery Disease

CAD can have severe long-term health implications, such as heart attack, stroke, and even death. For this reason, it is important to have regular screenings and take steps to reduce the risk of developing CAD. This includes managing risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, and making positive lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and exercising regularly.

Keywords: Coronary Artery Disease, Symptoms, Treatment, Causes, Health, Cardiovascular Disease, Plaque, Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Heart Attack, Stroke.