Coronary Artery Disease : What is it & treatments

A condition where the major blood vessels supplying the heart are narrowed. The reduced blood flow can cause chest pain and shortness of breath.

Symptoms of CAD are noted only after the arteries are significantly damaged. Primarily noted symptoms include chest pain and shortness of breath.

A condition that results from inflammation or cholesterol deposition in the inner walls of major arteries supplying blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart.

Diagnosis is done by reviewing the medical history and performing a physical examination. Tests are done for symptomatic patients.

→ Common treatment options

→ How is this diagnosed?

• Treatable by a medical professional
• Diagnosed by medical professional
• Requires lab test or imaging
• Can last several years or be lifelong
• Common for ages 50 and older
• More common in males
• Can be dangerous or life threatening if untreated
• Family history may increase likelihood
• Urgent medical attention recommended in severe cases

Cholesterol lowering drugs: To reduce blood cholesterol levels. The range of medications may include statins, niacin, fibrates and bile acid sequestrants.

Atorvastatin . Fluvastatin . Niacin . Fenofibrate . Gemfibrozil . Cholestyramine . Colesevelam

Anticoagulants: To reduce thickness of blood and prevent blood clots. Aspirin may also be prescribed to prevent blood clots.

Warfarin . Heparin

Beta blockers: To reduce blood pressure and heart rate.

Acebutolol . Atenolol

Nitrates: Controls chest pain by temporarily dilating arteries and allowing for better blood flow.

Nitroglycerin

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors: To reduce blood pressure.

Enalapril . Lisinopril

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs): To reduce blood pressure.

Irbesartan . Losartan

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