Coronary artery disease is the most popular heart condition. It occurs when the arteries cannot carry oxygen by themselves. This condition occurs because damaged arteries block the blood flow. Plaque buildup and injury are the main causes of CAD. The arteries leave less space for blood flow when they narrow, decreasing blood flow. A heart attack is the first sign of CAD. It is wise to discuss all you should know about coronary artery disease in Tomball with a specialist.
Causes of the Coronary Artery Disease
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of CAD, and it entails the hardening of arteries.
Coronary arteries have smooth walls that enable blood to flow easily. Plaque gets trapped when there is damage to the arteries, and they restrict blood flow with time.
Other substances like proteins can stick to the plaques, taking years to notice them. You will not detect plaque build-ups until the condition becomes severe. Plaque buildup lowers blood flow to the heart, and this causes:
- Heart failure
- Weak heart muscle
- Blockage
Atherosclerosis happens in the turbulent areas of the arteries. Other factors that trigger atherosclerosis include;
- Smoking
- High-fat levels in the blood
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol levels
Other factors cause blockage, and some include;
- Artery vasculitis
- An embolism
- An aneurysm
Plaques open up at times, making blood cells create clots. These clots can become big enough to limit blood flow to your heart. CAD may not show symptoms, but doctors can confirm the diagnosis using extra tests.
How to Prevent CAD
It is possible to avoid CAD using certain lifestyle habits. You can also achieve the same by having a balanced diet and limiting your salt intake. Other prevention means include;
- Cutting weight if you are obese
- Increasing physical activity
- Regulating your blood pressure
- Quit smoking tobacco since
- Undergo surgical procedures to restore blood flow
Symptoms of CAD
Narrow coronary arteries cannot supply the heart enough blood, especially when working out. The decreased blood flow might fail to show symptoms at first unless the buildup continues. Some signs of CAD include;
- Chest Pain
You might feel tightness in your chest that happens on the left side of the chest. This pain is called angina and is enhanced by emotional stress. It immediately leaves when you stop the tedious activity. It may also be sharp or brief for some people.
- Heart Attack
A heart attack is the result of a completely blocked coronary artery. The typical signs of this attack include pressure in your chest and shortness of breath.
Women experience fewer signs, and they are also less severe than men.
- Shortness of Breath
You may develop shortness of breath if your body does not pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
Final Thoughts
Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease. It happens when the arteries cannot carry enough oxygen to themselves. The above piece has all you need to know about coronary artery disease.
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