Coronary Artery Disease

What is coronary artery disease? 

Coronary artery disease, also known as CAD, happens when plaque builds up inside the arteries of your heart. These arteries move oxygen-rich blood to the heart to keep it functioning. As plaque accumulates in the arteries, it causes them to narrow, limiting this flow of blood.

CAD can become quite serious if left untreated and even lead to outcomes like stroke and heart attack. Both conditions are caused by sudden blockages in blood flow and considered medical emergencies. 

Who is at risk of developing coronary artery disease?

Several factors may increase your risk of developing coronary artery disease. Some are controllable factors, while others, such as age, are outside of your control:

• High blood pressure 
• High cholesterol 
• Excess weight 
• A sedentary lifestyle 
• Smoking
• Poor dietary choices
• Stress
• Family history
• Older age 

For men over the age of 45 and women over the age of 55, you have a higher risk of having CAD. However, the majority of risk factors for the disease start earlier in life. For this reason, it’s important that you begin good lifestyle habits while you’re still young. 

If you’re older, you can also take proactive steps to reduce your chances of having a heart attack or stroke by: 

• Having regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks
• Getting proper nutrition
• Reducing stress
• Managing your weight
• Quitting smoking 
• Exercising regularly 

What are some signs I have coronary artery disease?

Some signs and symptoms you may have coronary artery disease include the following: 

• Angina (chest pain)
• Shortness of breath
• Weakness and fatigue 
• Sharp or brief pain in the neck, arms, or back
• Cold sweats 
• Nausea 

If you experience any of the symptoms of CAD, you should schedule an evaluation with Dr. Demetrios Panagiotou at Keystone Cardiology Center. He can help you manage your symptoms and achieve better wellness. 

How is coronary artery disease treated?

In addition to making healthy lifestyle changes, Dr. Demetrios Panagiotou may recommend certain medications to treat the underlying symptoms of coronary artery disease, including: 

• Cholesterol-lowering medications 
• Blood pressure-lowering medications
• Blood thinners 
• Beta blockers 
• Nitroglycerin 

If nonsurgical treatments aren’t able to treat your condition effectively, you may need an invasive procedure called angioplasty and stent placement or coronary artery bypass surgery to restore blood flow to the heart. 

To learn how Dr. Panagiotou can help you manage coronary artery disease, call Keystone Cardiovascular Center, or book an appointment online today.