By Cross County Cardiology Education Team
Hello from Cross County Cardiology! Today, we’re diving into an important topic that affects millions: coronary artery disease (CAD). As heart health experts, our goal is to help you understand what CAD is, its causes, common symptoms, and the effective treatments available. Heart health is essential to a vibrant life, and understanding CAD is a big step toward keeping our hearts strong and healthy.
What is Coronary Artery Disease?
Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle gradually narrow due to plaque buildup. Plaque forms from substances in the blood like cholesterol, fat, and other materials. High blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol are some of the biggest contributors to this buildup, and over time, these narrowed arteries restrict blood flow to the heart.
The Impact of Coronary Artery Disease
CAD is one of the most common heart conditions in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 18.2 million adults are affected by it—that’s 6.7% of the adult population. This prevalence highlights the importance of awareness, as recognizing and addressing CAD can prevent serious complications.
Recognizing Symptoms of CAD
Symptoms of CAD typically don’t appear until the arteries are significantly narrowed, often around 70% blockage. When symptoms do arise, they can include:
- Chest Pain or Pressure (Angina): Often occurs with physical exertion or stress
- Shortness of Breath: Especially during activities
- Fatigue with Exertion: Feeling unusually tired when active
These symptoms are sometimes dismissed as minor, but early detection is crucial to avoid more severe heart issues.
Preventing and Treating Coronary Artery Disease
Preventive steps are our best defense against CAD. Key measures include managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, as well as maintaining an active lifestyle with regular aerobic exercise. However, even with preventive efforts, life events and genetics can still lead to CAD.
At Cross County Cardiology, our mission is to provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. For some patients, lifestyle changes and medications may be sufficient to control symptoms. For others, we offer advanced treatments like stenting.
How Stents Restore Blood Flow
When necessary, stenting is a highly effective treatment to restore blood flow. During this procedure, a tiny wire is inserted into the narrowed artery, and a small balloon inflates to push the plaque against the artery walls. A metal stent is then placed to keep the artery open, allowing blood to flow freely to the heart. This procedure can relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of future complications, helping patients regain their quality of life.
Cross County Cardiology: Here for Your Heart Health
Our team of experienced cardiologists is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. From monitoring your heart health to guiding you through preventive care and advanced treatment options, we’re here to ensure you stay on the path to a stronger, healthier heart. Coronary artery disease doesn’t have to limit your life—it can be the motivation to prioritize your well-being and embrace a more active lifestyle.
For more information on coronary artery disease and heart health, visit trusted sources like the CDC, NHLBI, and the American Heart Association.
