Coronary artery disease - Prevention and key risk factors

Don't ignore the subtle signs your heart is sending you. Understanding Coronary Artery Disease is the first, most crucial step toward protecting your long-term heart health and preventing serious complications.

What are the main causes of Coronary Artery Disease?

• What is coronary artery disease? It's a condition where plaque builds up in your heart's arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis.

• The primary causes of coronary artery disease include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes, which all damage the inner artery walls.
• Major risk factors for CAD also include a family history of heart disease, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and high levels of stress.

Key symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease to watch for

• The most common of all coronary artery disease symptoms is angina, which feels like chest pain, pressure, tightness, or a squeezing sensation.
• Other signs of blocked arteries can include shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion, and overwhelming fatigue with minimal daily activity.
• A heart attack is the most severe symptom, presenting as crushing chest pain that may spread to the shoulder, arm, back, or jaw.

How can you prevent Coronary Artery Disease effectively?

• Effective coronary artery disease prevention involves adopting a heart-healthy CAD diet that is low in saturated fat, salt, and added sugars.
• Modern CAD treatment includes medications to manage cholesterol and blood pressure, combined with lifestyle changes like regular exercise and smoking cessation.
• For severe blockages, a heart stent procedure (angioplasty) may be performed by a doctor to open the narrowed artery and restore blood flow.

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Image of the disease Coronary Artery Disease 

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Proactive management is key to living well with this condition. If you have risk factors or are experiencing symptoms, speak with your doctor about a heart health screening.

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