Coronary artery disease, angina and heart attacks
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Coronary artery disease, also known as heart artery disease, occurs when the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked by fatty deposits called plaque. This reduces blood flow to the heart, which can cause chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, or other symptoms.
CAD develops gradually over time and is the most common cause of heart attacks. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, family history, and a sedentary lifestyle. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to protect heart health and prevent serious complications.
Angina
Angina is chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It often feels like pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest, sometimes spreading to the arm, jaw, neck, or back. Angina usually occurs during physical activity, emotional stress, or after meals, when the heart needs more oxygen.
Types of angina include:
Stable angina: Predictable episodes triggered by exertion or stress, relieved by rest or medication.
Unstable angina: Occurs unexpectedly or at rest, and may signal a high risk of heart attack.
Variant (Prinzmetal) angina: Caused by a temporary spasm in the coronary arteries, often at rest.
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and reducing the risk of heart attack. This may include medications to improve blood flow, control blood pressure and cholesterol, and prevent blood clots. In some cases, procedures such as angioplasty with stenting or coronary bypass surgery may be recommended.
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
A heart attack happens when a coronary artery becomes suddenly blocked, usually by a blood clot forming at the site of a ruptured plaque. This prevents blood and oxygen from reaching part of the heart muscle, causing damage.
Common signs and symptoms include:
Chest pain or pressure, often radiating to the arm, jaw, neck, or back
Shortness of breath
Nausea or vomiting
Sweating or lightheadedness
Fatigue or a feeling of impending doom
Heart attacks are a medical emergency. Rapid treatment restores blood flow, reduces heart muscle damage, and improves survival. Treatments may involve emergency medications, angioplasty with stenting, or bypass surgery, followed by long-term management with medications and lifestyle changes.
Preventing Heart Disease and Heart Attacks
Managing risk factors is key to preventing CAD, angina, and heart attacks. This includes:
Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
Maintaining a healthy weight and active lifestyle
Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol
Reducing stress and eating a heart-healthy diet
Regular cardiac check-ups, especially if you have risk factors
With early detection, effective treatment, and healthy lifestyle measures, many patients with CAD can lead active, fulfilling lives while minimizing the risk of serious complications such as heart attacks.
