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Coronary artery disease causes symptoms treatment 

Description of Coronary artery disease

Definition of Coronary artery diseaseAccording to dictionary definition  Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a disease of the blood vessels that supply blood to the muscles of the heart. Atherosclerosis, i.e., the deposition of plaque on the inner wall of the vessels, is the primary cause of the CAD.

The disability and fatality associated with CAD have a significant impact and is estimated to be more than about 4.5 million in the developing world. In the western world, it is estimated that 11.5%, i.e., 24.7 million are living with CAD. It contributes to about 1/3rd of all deaths in individuals over age 35.  Causes and Risk Factors of Coronary artery diseaseAccording to dictionary definition  1. Atherosclerosis initiates as the fatty streak or plaques which appear initially in the aorta and coronary vessels. This appears on the inner vessel wall with deposits of fat. It increases with age. Men are more at risk of developing heart disease than premenopausal women.2. Menopausal women with a history of oral contraceptives who are over the age of 35 and are smokers3. People with familial history of premature heart attacks4. Chronic conditions such as hypertension and Type II diabetes5. Obesity6. Smoking7. Chronic kidney conditions  Signs and Symptoms of Coronary artery diseaseAccording to dictionary definition  1. Narrowing of the blood vessels may lead to angina or chest pain. This occurs when any part of the heart muscle does not get enough blood supply.2. Sharp neck or back pain or a feeling of pressure which is located in the center of the chest or the breastbone.3. Nausea, a rapid heartbeat, or abnormal rhythms4. Fatigue, weakness and shortness of breath, and anxiety  InvestigationsAccording to dictionary definition  1. Blood tests for cholesterol, HDL and LDL.2. Coronary angiography3. Exercise stress test or treadmill test can help uncover irregular heart rhythms due to exertion.4. Echocardiogram5. Electron beam computed tomography [EBCT] helps to detect calcium deposits in the vessel walls6. Heart CT or MRI confirms findings of narrowing or blocks in the vessels.  Treatment of Coronary artery diseaseAccording to dictionary definition  1. General modifications include;a) Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise changesb) Adherence to medical treatment including for chronic underlying diseases such as hypertension, type II diabetes, etc., regular exercise, weight control, and most importantly smoking cessation.2. Medical treatment includes:a) Anticoagulantsb) Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitorsc) Beta blockersd) Diureticse) Calcium channel blockers  f) Statins to reduce high cholesterol levelsg) Nitrates to stop the chest pain3. Surgical treatment that includes:a) Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG)b) Angioplasty and stent placementsc) Percutaneous coronary interventions  Complications and When Should You See a DoctorAccording to dictionary definition  Complications include:1. Heart attack2. Heart failure3. Abnormal rhythm or arrhythmias  Prognosis and Prevention of Coronary artery diseaseAccording to dictionary definition  1. Monitoring and treatment of underlying chronic conditions such as hypertension can help prevent development of CAD.2. Quit smoking3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with nutritious diet and regular medication4. Regular exercise and activities can help reduce stress5. Follow-up may ensure better prognosis6. A weight control program with diet modifications can go a long way in reducing the risk of CAD.