Coronary artery disease (CAD) : A Serious Illness, Treated in Various Ways

 

 

 

     One of the serious diseases that remains frightening due to its difficulty in treatment, coronary artery disease (CAD) is still a major concern because it can affect even younger individuals. What should we do if we experience symptoms of this condition? Let's explore the causes, related conditions, and the self-care methods that can help prevent it.

 

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

     Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque (fat deposits) or hardening of the blood vessels, which makes it difficult for blood to flow into the heart. This condition also encompasses three other related diseases: coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

 

Symptoms of the Disease

Signs of coronary artery disease can manifest as:

 

• Chest pain or tightness and upper abdominal pain, which may radiate to the arms or jaw
• Shortness of breath, sweating, cold extremities, and palpitations
• Fatigue with exertion, accompanied by nausea, dizziness, or fainting

 

After Effects of the Disease

     After developing coronary artery disease, patients often face significant health problems such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, and may progress to heart failure, which can severely impact daily life. Medication, as well as lifestyle adjustments to manage risk factors, are essential to alleviate the severity of symptoms.

 

Risk Factors for the Disease

Uncontrollable Risk Factors

• Age The heart's blood vessels tend to deteriorate with age, and the disease is more likely to occur in men than women.
• Genetics A family history can indicate a higher risk, as genetic factors may contribute to the development of the disease.
• Menopause Women who have gone through menopause are at a higher risk due to hormonal changes that can upset the body's balance.

 

 

 

 

 

Controllable Risk Factors

• Diabetes Complications from diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease, especially in younger women, and can result in more severe outcomes compared to the general population.
• High Blood Pressure Often a result of alcohol consumption, substance abuse, poor diet, or pre-existing conditions such as thyroid disease or adrenal tumors.
• Poor Sleep Lack of sleep increases blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to acute coronary ischemia.
• Poor Diet Diets high in carbohydrates and saturated fats can lead to high cholesterol and plaque buildup in the arteries, causing narrowing or blockage.
• Environmental Factors Pollution and stressful work environments can increase the risk of heart disease, particularly in individuals who are already obese or diabetic.
• Smoking Smoking damages the blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease by at least twice.
• Stress Chronic stress can lead to the narrowing of blood vessels.

 

 

 

 

 

The Diagnosis

     If you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, you should seek medical attention. A doctor will start by taking your medical history and performing an electrocardiogram (EKG). They may then conduct blood tests to check for elevated heart enzymes, which indicate damage to the heart muscle. The final diagnostic test may involve a coronary angiogram, which uses dye to see any blockages in the arteries.

 

The Treatment for Coronary Artery Disease

1.  Medication

     Medication may be used when the heart problem is not severe, such as for mild heart valve issues. The doctor will evaluate the patient's condition and recommend appropriate medication, especially if surgery is not an option.

 

 

 

 

 

2.  Balloon Angioplasty

     This procedure involves inserting a balloon catheter into the narrowed coronary artery to expand the vessel and restore normal blood flow without surgery.

 

The procedure steps include:

• Step 1 Inserting the catheter into the artery at the site of the blockage.
• Step 2 Inflating the balloon to widen the artery and compress the plaque.
• Step 3 Deflating the balloon and removing the catheter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.  Coronary Stent Implantation

     This procedure is similar to balloon angioplasty, but in this case, a stent is left in place to keep the artery open permanently.

 

4.  Laser Treatment

     Laser therapy uses ultraviolet light to break down fatty or calcium deposits in the arteries, making them small enough to be removed from the body.

 

5.  Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery (CABG)

     This surgery involves rerouting blood flow around blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, typically used when multiple arteries are affected or when other treatments are not effective.

 

Reducing Risk Through Proper Self-Care

Coronary artery disease can be prevented or its onset delayed by adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as:

 

• Reducing sodium, sugar, saturated fats, and alcohol intake
• Limiting daily calorie consumption to help manage blood sugar levels; consult a specialist if necessary
• Engaging in regular physical activity to maintain healthy blood flow and reduce blockages
• Quitting smoking to help preserve the strength of blood vessels
• Ensuring adequate, high-quality sleep

 

Giving New Hope with Ramkhamhaeng Hospital

     Even if you or a loved one faces significant health challenges, you can find comfort and confidence at Heart Center at Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, where expert care offers renewed hope for a better life. With international-standard accreditation (AACI from the USA) and cutting-edge medical technologies, along with specialized physicians and rehabilitation programs for heart, lung, and exercise recovery, you can begin your journey to better health today.