What is Coronary artery disease (CAD)?
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common type of heart disease that occurs when the blood vessels become narrow or blocked that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle . This narrowing is cause by the buildup of plaque. As the plaque accumulates, it can restrict blood flow to the heart. Leading to various symptoms and complications.
What are the risk factors of Coronary artery disease(CAD)?
- High cholesterol levels: Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol (bad” cholesterol) can increase the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries.
- High blood pressure: Hypertension can damage the arteries over time. And making them more prone to developing plaque buildup.
- Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that can damage the blood vessels. and promote the formation of plaque.
- Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at higher risk of developing coronary artery disease; due to elevated blood sugar levels that can damage the blood vessels.
- Obesity: Excess weight, particularly around the waist, can increase the risk of developing CAD.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity can contribute to the development of risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and obesity.
What causes coronary artery disease?
This CAD is primarily cause by the buildup of plaque. Which is a combination of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances—in the coronary arteries. That supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. This buildup narrows or blocks the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. and increasing the risk of heart-related complications.
What are the forms of coronary artery disease?
- Atherosclerosis: The most common form, characterize by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, leading to narrowing or blockage.
- Coronary Artery Stenosis: Refers to the narrowing of the coronary arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart.
- Coronary Artery Spasm: Involves sudden, temporary tightening or constriction of the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and potential chest pain.
- Coronary Microvascular Disease (CMD): Affects the smaller arteries of the heart and is often more challenging to diagnose, as it doesn’t always involve major blockages.
- Coronary Thrombosis: Occurs when a blood clot forms in a coronary artery, potentially causing a heart attack if the blood flow is completely block.
Symptoms of coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
- Pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness in the chest.
- Pain, discomfort, or numbness in the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back, which may radiate from the chest.
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or weakness, even with minimal physical exertion.
- Nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or abdominal pain.
- Dizziness
- Sweating, particularly cold sweats.
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia).
- Anxiety or a feeling of impending doom.
What are warning signs of coronary artery disease?
Warning signs of coronary artery disease (CAD) include chest pain or discomfort (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, and dizziness. These symptoms may indicate reduce blood flow to the heart and should prompt medical evaluation.
What are the 4 stages of Coronary artery disease?
- Stage 1: Atherosclerosis: The development of fatty deposits (plaque) on the inner walls of the coronary arteries, narrowing them over time.
- Stage 2: Stable Angina: Occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the heart during physical exertion or stress, leading to chest pain or discomfort that is usually predictable and manageable.
- Stage 3: Unstable Angina: Involves more unpredictable and severe chest pain. It often occurring at rest or with minimal exertion, indicating a higher risk of a heart attack.
- Stage 4: Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): Complete blockage of blood flow to a part of the heart. Which resulting in damage to the heart muscle. This is a critical stage and requires immediate medical attention.
What is the new treatment for coronary artery disease?
Efficacy of EECP Treatment in Coronary artery disease
Overall, EECP treatment has shown promising results in improving symptoms and quality of life in patients with CAD. For those with refractory angina (chest pain that does not respond well to standard treatments).
EECP has been associate with improvements in exercise tolerance, cardiac function, and overall cardiovascular health.
Overall, EECP can be a valuable treatment option for certain patients with CAD, particularly those who want to avoid angioplasty and bypass surgery.
Why choose Shanikrupa Heartcare Centre?
“Shanikrupa Heartcare Centre offers advance non-invasive heart treatments. Our experience medical team provide patients with effective alternatives to angioplasty and bypass surgery. Through innovative approaches such as EECP therapy.
Our aim to improve blood flow to the heart, alleviate symptoms. and enhance overall cardiovascular health. Contact us today to learn more about our non-invasive coronary heart disease treatment and schedule a consultation with our expert and qualified doctors.