Atherosclerosis and Coronary Artery Disease

Atherosclerosis and Coronary Artery Disease 

Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque slowly accumulates within the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. This reduced circulation can eventually lead to serious cardiovascular issues. 

When this plaque buildup occurs in the arteries that supply the heart, it’s referred to as coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease. This can raise the likelihood of experiencing chest discomfort, heart attacks and other heart-related complications.

Recognizing the Symptoms 

Symptoms often develop gradually and may go unnoticed early on. As the disease advances, you might begin to feel: 

  • Pressure or pain in the chest (angina) 
  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Tiredness during physical exertion 
  • Discomfort in the jaw, neck, shoulders or back 

In some cases, individuals only learn they have CAD after suffering a heart attack. 

Diagnostic Tools for CAD 

To identify coronary artery disease, healthcare providers may use several diagnostic methods, including: 

  • Electrocardiogram (EKG) 
  • Cardiac stress tests 
  • Echocardiography 
  • Coronary angiograms 
  • Heart CT scans 

These evaluations help your medical team assess heart performance and detect areas with limited blood flow. 

Treatment and Ongoing Care 

Managing CAD typically starts with lifestyle adjustments and may also involve: 

  • Eating a heart-healthy diet and staying active 
  • Medications to control cholesterol, blood pressure and glucose levels 
  • Procedures such as stent placement or angioplasty to restore circulation 
  • Routine checkups to monitor heart health 

At Carondelet Health Network and Carondelet Medical Group, your provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment strategy tailored to your needs. 

Continue