Coronary artery disease
Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries that supply blood to your heart become narrowed or blocked by plaque. This limits blood flow and reduces the oxygen and nutrients your heart receives. Over time, this can lead to chest discomfort, shortness of breath or, in severe cases, a heart attack.
Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease
• Chest pain or pressure, especially during activity or stress
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue with exertion
• Pain in the neck, jaw, shoulder, back or arm
• Sometimes, no symptoms until a heart attack occurs
Causes and Risk Factors
Coronary artery disease is most often caused by a gradual buildup of fatty deposits, called plaque, in the arteries — a process known as atherosclerosis. Risk increases with:
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• An unhealthy diet
• Physical inactivity
• Obesity
• Family history of heart disease
Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease
To understand your heart health, your care team may recommend:
• A physical exam
• Blood tests
• Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG) to review heart rhythm
• Echocardiogram to assess heart structure and pumping function
• Exercise stress testing
• Coronary angiography using X-ray and dye to identify blockages
Treatments for Coronary Artery Disease
Treatment plans are personalized and may include lifestyle changes, medications or heart procedures. At TidalHealth, our specialists will help determine the best approach. Options may include:
• Medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol or heart function
• Angioplasty (balloon angioplasty) to open blocked arteries, sometimes with a stent
• Atherectomy to remove plaque
• Stent placement to keep arteries open
• Surgery when other treatments are not sufficient
If you have concerns about symptoms or risk factors, the team at TidalHealth is here to guide you. We are committed to helping you protect your heart health with care and support.
What is coronary artery disease?
It is a condition in which plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart, reducing blood flow and limiting the oxygen and nutrients your heart receives.
What are common symptoms?
Symptoms vary. Many people experience chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue or pain in the neck, jaw, back or arms. Others may not notice symptoms until a heart attack occurs.
How is coronary artery disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis may include a physical exam, blood tests, EKG, echocardiogram, stress testing or coronary angiography. Your practitioner will determine which tests are most appropriate.
What are some treatments?
Treatments may involve lifestyle changes, medications, angioplasty, stenting or, in some cases, surgery. Your TidalHealth specialist will help you choose the best options for your situation.
Can I help prevent coronary artery disease?
Yes. Avoiding tobacco, eating a balanced diet, staying active, managing weight and keeping blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar within healthy ranges can all reduce risk.
What should I do if I think I have symptoms?
Seek medical attention right away if you have chest pain, shortness of breath or discomfort in your upper body that does not go away with rest. For non-urgent questions, reach out to your healthcare practitioner.
