Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Diagnosis: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a progressive condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries due to the buildup of plaque. Diagnosis involves:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Assessing risk factors such as high cholesterol levels, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and family history of heart disease.
• Diagnostic Tests: Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) records electrical activity of the heart and detects abnormal rhythms. Stress tests assess heart function during physical activity. Echocardiography, cardiac CT scans, or coronary angiography provide detailed images of the heart and coronary arteries.
• Blood Tests: Measuring cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein (CRP) to assess cardiac health and inflammation.

Treatment: Management of coronary artery disease focuses on reducing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving heart health. Treatment options include:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium. Engaging in regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and managing stress help reduce the risk of heart disease progression.
• Medications: Antiplatelet medications (e.g., aspirin), beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), statins, and nitroglycerin are prescribed to lower blood pressure, control cholesterol levels, prevent blood clots, and relieve chest pain (angina).
• Surgical Interventions: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with angioplasty and stenting, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), or other surgical procedures may be recommended to restore blood flow to the heart muscle.

Prevention: Preventive measures for coronary artery disease include:

• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium intake reduces the risk of plaque buildup in coronary arteries.
• Physical Activity: Engaging in regular aerobic exercise (e.g., brisk walking, swimming) for at least 30 minutes most days of the week helps improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Routine Health Screenings: Regular medical check-ups and screenings for cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood glucose help detect and manage risk factors for coronary artery disease early.

Early detection, comprehensive treatment plans, and lifestyle modifications are essential in managing coronary artery disease effectively and improving long-term outcomes.