General Information About Coronary Artery Disease
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the hardening, narrowing, and blockage of the vascular network (coronary arteries) that feed the heart, carrying oxygen and nutrients to it, due to the accumulation of cholesterol and calcium.
Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and a family history of heart attacks (genetic predisposition) are the main factors that damage the vessels.
It is the most typical symptom of the disease. While walking, climbing stairs, or experiencing stress, a severe feeling of heaviness, pressure, tightness, or burning occurs in the middle of the chest, radiating to the back or left arm. It subsides with rest.
When a cholesterol plaque in the vessel suddenly ruptures, the body sends a clot there. When the clot completely blocks the already narrowed vessel, the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen and dies; this event is called a Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction).
An Exercise ECG (treadmill) test is performed to see if the heart is strained. The definitive map of vascular blockages is obtained via Coronary Angiography (entered through the wrist or groin) or Computed Tomography (Virtual Angiography).
If the narrowing is at a critical level despite medication (blood thinners/cholesterol pills); if the vascular structure is suitable, it is expanded with a balloon during angiography, and a metal cage (Stent) is placed. However, if many vessels are blocked, new bridges are established by the Cardiovascular Surgery department using vessels taken from the leg/chest in an open surgery (Coronary Bypass).
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
