Coronary artery disease (CAD), while a common problem, requires expertise in its diagnosis and treatment. If you’re facing CAD, Endeavor Health is here to support you with every beat of your heart.
CAD occurs when cholesterol forms plaque on the walls of the coronary arteries. Your arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart, so over time, the plaque buildup narrows the arterial lumen (the space between your artery walls).
This process can result in the reduction of blood flow to your heart. This condition is often referred to as ischemic plaque or ischemic heart disease and can lead to chest pain (angina) or even a heart attack.
With proactive steps and the Endeavor Health team at your side, you can manage CAD effectively.
Common symptoms of CAD include:
- Chest discomfort or tightness that is often experienced during physical activity or emotional distress
- Shortness of breath during exertion
- Fatigue or exhaustion even with minimal activity
- Heart palpitations or the sensation of your heart pounding or racing
It's important to note that not everyone with CAD experiences any symptoms until a significant blockage has developed. That’s why scheduling regular checkups are important. At Endeavor Health, we use advanced diagnostic tools, such as stress tests, echocardiograms and coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring, to assess your risk and detect CAD early.
Diagnosis
The CAC score is a number used to help diagnose coronary artery disease before symptoms have occurred. It measures the amount of calcium buildup in your coronary arteries, which is a marker for coronary plaque. Typically done with a CT scan, this test helps your doctor determine the extent of plaque in your arteries and assess your risk of heart problems. A higher CAC score indicates a greater amount of calcium deposits, which can serve as a warning sign for advanced CAD. A CAC score is an important tool in developing a treatment plan.
A stress test evaluates how well your heart performs under physical stress, such as exercise. During the test, you’ll walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels are monitored. If you’re unable to exercise, medications can be used to simulate the effects of physical activity. Stress tests are critical for detecting blockages, assessing heart rhythm and guiding treatment plans.
A heart catheterization, or cardiac cath, is a minimally invasive procedure that allows your doctor to evaluate how well your heart is functioning. A thin, flexible tube is inserted into a blood vessel in your wrist or groin and guided to your heart. Using contrast dye and X-ray imaging, this test identifies blockages, measures blood flow and assesses heart valve function. A heart catheterization can also be used during procedures like percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to treat blocked arteries.
Treatment for CAD often involves a combination of lifestyle and medical solutions, including:
- Medications to lower cholesterol, manage blood pressure and prevent blood clots
- Lifestyle support to help you make heart-healthy changes, such as improving diet, increasing physical activity and quitting smoking
- Procedures to relieve obstruction may be necessary when the CAD is severe. Most commonly, this is done with coronary stenting or PCI and sometimes with devices that shave away the plaque. In some instances, coronary bypass surgery is the best treatment.
Endeavor Health is here to provide you with the resources and support you need to manage your heart health and lead a fulfilling life. We have access to the most innovative and minimally invasive technologies, so if you do need a stent or bypass, you have optimal chances for a positive outcome and speedy recovery.
Frequently asked questions
Coronary artery disease is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries. This plaque consists of cholesterol, fatty substances and other cellular waste products. Over time, the buildup narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow to the heart.
While not all cases of CAD can be prevented, you can significantly reduce your risk by making lifestyle changes. This includes eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
CAD is diagnosed using a combination of assessments and data points, including a patient's history, physical exam, blood tests, stress tests, echocardiograms, CT scans or coronary angiograms. A CAC score can sometimes be used before symptoms are apparent.
Treatment options for CAD include lifestyle changes, medications and medical procedures such as coronary interventions like stents or bypass surgery. The best approach depends on the severity of your condition and your overall health.
While CAD cannot be completely reversed, its progression can be slowed or stopped through changes in lifestyle, medications and medical treatments. In some cases, plaque buildup can be reduced, leading to improved heart function.
Lifestyle changes that can help manage CAD include: adopting a healthy diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol, increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress and quitting smoking.
Family history can increase your risk of developing CAD. If you have a close relative with CAD, it's important to discuss this with your healthcare team and take proactive steps to reduce your risk.
If you have CAD, regular follow-up appointments are crucial. Your healthcare team will determine how often you need checkups based on your condition and treatment plan. This may include regular blood tests, stress tests and imaging studies to monitor your heart health.
Managing coronary artery disease requires a team effort, and Endeavor Health is committed to being your partner on this journey. Together, we’ll work on creating a plan that helps you thrive. If you have questions or concerns, we're here to listen and provide guidance every step of the way.
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If you’re experiencing symptoms or want to learn more about your heart health, schedule an appointment with our specialized cardiovascular team today.
At Endeavor Health Cardiovascular Institute, your heart health is our mission. With advanced technologies, compassionate care and a dedicated team of specialists, we’re here to help you on every step of your heart health journey.
