Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a type of heart disease, caused by gradual blockage of the coronary arteries. The heart gets oxygen and nutrients from the blood that runs through these arteries.

In this disease thick layers of fat tissue, plates are formed inside the walls of arteries. As the plate thickness increases, the flow of blood decreases and sometimes the board itself or a blood clot formed in the plate, can completely block the artery. This makes the heart receives less oxygen. This narrowing of the arteries by the board, and sometimes complete blockage, increase the risk of heart attack and sudden death.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to make it back in active lifestyle and fully productive. The type of treatment depends on many factors, such as age, heart muscle function and other health problems.

Initially, treatment may include dietary changes and an exercise program monitored. The doctor may prescribe a medication to prevent chest pain. If after some time this treatment is ineffective or if the coronary arteries are severely blocked, may be required surgical intervention such as angioplasty which is a method to open, or dilate an artery partially blocked by a thin tube (catheter). The procedure involves some risk, but lower than the bypass.

If you have severe or multiple blockages, your doctor may recommend surgery "bypass" coronary artery. Arteries of the thorax, abdomen, or arm or leg veins (saphenous), are used to create detours around areas of blockage in the arteries of the heart.
Prevention
Review your personal and family medical history and habits so you know what is the risk of coronary artery disease that has to be able to determine the best means to reduce such risk.

Follow the advice of your doctor for any changes in your diet and daily activity. Eating a healthy diet, fit the right kind of exercise, and not smoking are the best means of preventing CHD.

NOTE: If you ever had chest pain similar to angina, seek immediate medical attention.