Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition in which fatty plaque is deposited along the walls of the arteries that supply the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood. When the coronary arteries are narrowed and hardened by plaque, blood can’t reach the heart muscle. This can lead to angina or a heart attack.
Symptoms depend on many factors, including gender and age. Some people have no noticeable symptoms while others may experience chest discomfort, as well as fatigue and shortness of breath.
CAD is the number one killer for both men and women in the United States. Risk factors for CAD often include diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity and a family history of CAD. Controlling these risk factors is the key to preventing illness and death from coronary artery disease. Lifestyle changes and medical procedures administered by your cardiologist can help prevent or treat CAD.