“Genetics and lifestyle are the main contributors for the development of coronary artery disease,” says Benita Philip, DO, a cardiologist on the Medical Staff of Penn Medicine Princeton Health. “Keeping conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes under control, as well as maintaining a healthy diet, being physically active, not smoking, and limiting alcohol use are important when it comes to preventing or stabilizing the disease.”
CAD usually develops over decades, but symptoms may go unnoticed until a significant blockage or heart attack occurs. When signs do occur, they can include chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, fatigue, or a reduction in the level of activities of daily life.
Seek Medical Attention
“If you are experiencing signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain or uncomfortable pressure on the left side, which may radiate down the back, neck or jaw, seek medical attention immediately for evaluation,” says Dr. Philip. “If you are experiencing any of the other symptoms of coronary artery disease, talk to your primary doctor about being evaluated by a cardiologist to determine if you have the condition.”
Testing can involve blood work, EKGs, various types of stress tests, CT scan of the heart vessels, or a heart catheterization to determine whether there is a blockage. Treatment of CAD can involve medication or intervention with the placement of a stent after clearing a blocked artery.
“Modifications in your lifestyle will need to be incorporated to help control the underlying conditions that contributed to the development of the disease and to assist with preventing further damage,” says Dr. Philip.