Diseases
coronary artery disease
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Coronary artery disease is a common heart condition. The major blood vessels that supply the heart (coronary arteries) struggle to send enough blood, oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. Cholesterol deposits (plaques) in the heart arteries and inflammation are usually the cause of coronary artery disease.
Symptoms
- shortness of breath.
- fatigue.
- chest pain (angina).
- heart attack.
Causes
- diabetes or insulin resistance
- coronary artery disease starts when fats, cholesterols and other substances collect on the inner walls of the heart arteries. this condition is called atherosclerosis. the buildup is called plaque.
- high blood pressure
Risk factors
- age. getting older increases the risk of damaged and narrowed arteries.
- not getting enough exercise (sedentary lifestyle)
- men are generally at greater risk of coronary artery disease.
Diagnosis
- electrocardiogram (ecg or ekg).
- echocardiogram.
- exercise stress test.
- heart (cardiac) ct scan.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is coronary artery disease?
Coronary artery disease is a common heart condition. The major blood vessels that supply the heart (coronary arteries) struggle to send enough blood, oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. Cholesterol deposits (plaques) in the heart arteries and inflammation are usually the cause of coronary artery disease.
What are the symptoms of coronary artery disease?
shortness of breath., fatigue., chest pain (angina)., heart attack.
What causes coronary artery disease?
diabetes or insulin resistance; coronary artery disease starts when fats, cholesterols and other substances collect on the inner walls of the heart arteries. this condition is called atherosclerosis. the buildup is called plaque.; high blood pressure
Which medicines are used for coronary artery disease?
clopidogrel, perindopril, ticagrelor
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