CAD is caused by plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart (called coronary arteries) and other parts of the body.
Too much plaque buildup and narrowed artery walls can make it harder for blood to flow through your body. When your heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood, you may have chest pain or discomfort, called angina. Angina is the most common symptom of CAD.
Over time, CAD can weaken the heart muscle. This can lead to heart failure.
Diagnosing CAD:
- Being overweight, physical inactivity, unhealthy eating, and smoking tobacco are risk factors for CAD.
- A family history of heart disease also increases your risk for CAD.
Reducing your risk:
- Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthier (lower sodium, lower fat) diet, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking.
- Medications to treat the risk factors for CAD, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, and low blood flow.
- Surgical procedures to help restore blood flow to the heart