Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary Artery Disease
Treatment and Care Options
Treatment for CAD focuses on reducing plaque buildup, managing risk factors, and improving blood flow. This often involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes procedures.
Medications: Your doctor may prescribe antiplatelet drugs (like aspirin), statins (to lower cholesterol), or blood pressure medications. It is crucial to take these exactly as prescribed.
Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking are the cornerstones of CAD management.
Procedures: Depending on the severity, treatments may include angioplasty (balloon expansion) or stent placement to keep the arteries open.
What Causes this Condition?
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) happens when fat and cholesterol build up on the inner walls of the coronary arteries. This buildup is called plaque, and over time, it narrows the arteries and can restrict the blood supply to the heart.
- High cholesterol levels (especially LDL cholesterol)
- Smoking and tobacco use
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Diabetes