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Coronary Artery Disease
Understanding Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition that occurs when the coronary arteries — responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart — become narrowed or blocked. This is usually due to the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaque) on the artery walls, which restricts blood flow. Over time, reduced blood flow can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and potentially a heart attack.
Common Cardiovascular Conditions
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Narrowing of the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. This can lead to chest pain (angina) and heart attacks.
Heart Failure
A condition where the heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
Irregular heartbeats, ranging from harmless palpitations to life-threatening conditions.
Valvular Heart Disease
Problems with the heart valves that can affect blood flow.
Congenital Heart Defects
Heart problems present at birth.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Persistently high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
What Causes Coronary Artery Disease?
The primary cause of coronary artery disease is the buildup of plaque — a combination of cholesterol, fat, and other substances — within the coronary arteries. This buildup narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to symptoms like angina and, in severe cases, heart attacks.Over time, this restricted blood flow can weaken the heart muscle and increase the risk of serious cardiovascular complications.
Risk Factors of Coronary Artery Disease
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
Some risk factors are beyond your control, including:
- Age: The risk increases as you grow older.
- Gender: Men are generally at higher risk, while women become more vulnerable after menopause.
- Family History: A history of heart disease in close relatives, especially at a young age, increases your risk.
Modifiable Risk Factors:
These are lifestyle-related factors that can be controlled to reduce your risk:
- Smoking: Damages blood vessels and promotes plaque buildup.
- High Blood Pressure: Can injure artery walls and accelerate plaque accumulation.
- High Cholesterol Levels: Increases the chances of atherosclerosis.
- Diabetes and Obesity: Both conditions contribute to other risk factors.
- Unhealthy Diet and Stress: Poor lifestyle habits can significantly increase your risk of CAD.
Common Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease
- Chest Pain (Angina): A feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest, especially during physical or emotional stress
- Shortness of Breath and Fatigue: Caused by the heart’s reduced ability to pump blood effectively
- Irregular Heartbeat (Arrhythmia): Disrupted electrical impulses due to poor blood supply.
- Heart Attack: Severe chest pain, sweating, and discomfort radiating to the arms or shoulders may signal a heart attack.
Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease
At the Medical Specialist Center in Dubai, our experienced cardiologist in Dubai will conduct a detailed evaluation, which may include:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects irregularities in heart rhythm and signs of heart damage.
- Stress Test: Assesses how well your heart functions during physical exertion.
- Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to visualize heart function and detect abnormalities.
- Coronary Angiography: Involves inserting a catheter into the arteries to check for blockages. Treatment like angioplasty or stent placement may be performed if necessary.
- CT Heart Scan: Helps detect calcium deposits in the arteries, indicating the presence of CAD.
All diagnostic tests are available at the Medical Specialist Center in Dubai, ensuring convenience and expert care.
Treatment for Coronary Artery Disease in Dubai
Our cardiologist in Dubai will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of your condition. Initial treatment often involves lifestyle changes such as:
- Quitting smoking
- Controlling blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol
- Maintaining a healthy diet and weight
- Regular physical activity
- Managing stress effectively
If medication and lifestyle adjustments aren’t enough, procedures such as angioplasty with stent placement or coronary artery bypass surgery may be recommended.
At the Medical Specialist Center in Dubai, we are committed to delivering advanced and compassionate cardiac care to help you lead a heart-healthy life.
Treatments
Treatment options vary depending on the specific condition but may include:
Medications
To manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart rhythm.
Lifestyle Changes
Diet, exercise, and stress management.
Procedures
Angioplasty Stenting, Bypass surgery, Valve repair or replacement.