What is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?

Did you know that the prevalence of CAD in Indians is 21.4% for diabetics and 11% for non-diabetics? In addition, CAD is more prevalent in urban areas than rural ones. Medical experts from the best cardiology hospital in Nagercoil exclaim that cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of mortality in India, CAD is one of them after a heart attack. Let us understand what is CAD, its causes, and its warning signs.

What is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)? 

CAD is a type of heart disease where the arteries can’t supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. 

This occurs due to the plaque buildup that blocks one or more of the coronary arteries, leading to heart attack, cardiac arrest, and other complications. CAD is also referred to as coronary heart disease (CHD) and ischemic heart disease. 


Types of Coronary Artery Disease

CAD can be broadly classified into two categories:


Stable Ischemic Heart Disease

This is a chronic form of CAD where the arteries gradually narrow over the years. The patient may feel some symptoms as the heart receives less oxygen-rich blood.

Acute Coronary Syndrome

The second type of CAD is a medical emergency where the plaque in the artery suddenly ruptures, forming a blood clot that restricts blood flow to the heart. This may cause a heart attack too.

What are the signs of Coronary Artery Disease?

Our experienced cardiologist at Ponjesly Hospital, one of the best heart hospital in nagercoil, identifies chest pain or angina as the primary symptom of CAD. The symptoms of CAD often go unrecognized due to which it is also termed as ‘silent killer’. Below mentioned are the signs and symptoms of CAD:


  • Tightness in the middle of the chest or on the left

  • Shortness of breath

  • Feeling tired all the time

  • Heart attack that goes unnoticed


What are the causes of Coronary Artery Disease?

Our team of proficient cardiologists mention Atherosclerosis as the underlying cause of CAD. Atherosclerosis occurs when a waxy substance or plaque builds up on the walls of arteries. Over time, the plaque narrows down your coronary arteries resulting in coronary artery disease. Patients with plaque buildup in their coronary arteries often have buildup in other parts of their body, too. 


Risk Factors of Coronary Artery Disease

While some of the risk factors can be controlled through lifestyle changes, some can’t.

Some of the risk factors include:


  • As one age, the risk of CAD also increases

  • A family history of cardiovascular diseases imposes a greater risk for CAD

  • Lack of physical activity

  • Poor lifestyle habits

  • High blood pressure and cholesterol


Preventive Measures to Reduce the Risk of CAD


The following preventive measures can not only mitigate the chances of CAD but also help you lead an active and healthy lifestyle.


  • Eat balanced diet

  • Quit smoking and drinking

  • Keep an eye on your diabetes and blood pressure

  • Maintain healthy weight


Our cardiac care unit is bedecked with all the modern technologies to facilitate you with the best heart care in town. Being the best heart hospital in nagercoil, our cardiac experts are dedicated to providing you with the best-personalized care around the clock. Book an appointment now.

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