Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a prevalent heart condition that impacts the coronary arteries, the primary vessels supplying blood to the heart. CAD occurs when the flow of blood to the heart muscle is diminished, typically due to a buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances on the artery walls. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, leads to the narrowing of the arteries.

CAD usually develops gradually over many years. The reduced blood flow to the heart can cause symptoms such as chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath. A complete blockage of blood flow can result in a heart attack.

Treatment options for CAD include medication and surgery. Preventive measures like a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help reduce the risk of developing CAD and related conditions.

Another term for CAD is coronary heart disease.

What is Coronary Artery Disease? Insights from a Mayo Clinic Cardiologist

Dr. Stephen Kopecky from the Mayo Clinic discusses the risk factors, symptoms, and treatments for CAD, emphasizing how lifestyle changes can lower your risk.

Symptoms

Symptoms of CAD arise when the heart doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain (angina): This may feel like squeezing, pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the chest, often triggered by physical activity or strong emotions. The pain usually affects the middle or left side of the chest and can sometimes be felt in the neck, arm, or back, especially in women.
• Shortness of breath: A sensation of being unable to catch your breath.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired if the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

Initially, symptoms might only appear during exertion. As the condition progresses and the arteries narrow further, symptoms can become more frequent and severe.

A fully blocked coronary artery causes a heart attack. Common symptoms of a heart attack include:

• Chest pain that feels like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or aching.
• Pain or discomfort spreading to the shoulder, arm, back, neck, jaw, teeth, or upper abdomen.
• Cold sweats.
• Fatigue.
• Heartburn.
• Nausea.
• Shortness of breath.
• Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness.

Chest pain is typically the most common heart attack symptom. However, some individuals, particularly women, the elderly, and those with diabetes, might experience atypical symptoms like nausea or brief neck or back pain. Some heart attacks may occur without noticeable symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

If you suspect you're having a heart attack, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. If emergency services are unavailable, have someone drive you to the nearest hospital; only drive yourself as a last resort.

Certain factors increase the risk of CAD, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and a strong family history of heart disease. If you're at high risk, consult your healthcare provider. They might recommend tests to check for narrowed arteries and CAD.