### What is Coronary Artery Disease? Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. This plaque is made up of cholesterol, fat, and other substances. Over time, this buildup can restrict blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or even heart attacks. ### How Common is CAD? CAD is the most common type of heart disease and a leading cause of death. In the United States, about 18.2 million adults have CAD, and it was responsible for 375,476 deaths in 2021. ### Symptoms of CAD The most common symptom is chest pain or discomfort, often mistaken for heartburn. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, and pain in the shoulders, arms, back, or jaw. Women may experience different symptoms like extreme fatigue, nausea, and back or jaw pain. ### Risk Factors Risk factors include age, family history, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and obesity. Men over 45 and women over 55 are at higher risk. Ethnic minorities like Black, Hispanic, and Southeast Asian people are also at higher risk. ### Diagnosis Doctors diagnose CAD through various tests like blood tests, CT scans, echocardiograms, and stress tests. These tests help determine the extent of artery blockage and the overall health of the heart. ### Treatment Options 1. **Medications:** Blood thinners, aspirin, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and statins are commonly prescribed. 2. **Invasive Procedures:** Angioplasty, stent placement, and coronary artery bypass surgery are options for severe cases. 3. **Lifestyle Changes:** Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress are crucial. 4. **Cardiac Rehabilitation:** A structured program to help patients recover and improve their heart health. ### Prevention To reduce the risk of CAD, maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking, limit alcohol intake, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and manage stress. Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor and manage risk factors. ### Conclusion While there is no cure for CAD, following a treatment plan and making lifestyle changes can improve your prognosis and quality of life. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice and treatment options.