Coronary Artery Disease occurs when the blood vessels in your heart become narrowed and cannot supply your heart with enough blood, nutrients, and oxygen.
CAUSES
Coronary Artery Disease begins with damage to the inner layer of the coronary artery. The damage can be caused by high blood pressure or cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, or an inactive lifestyle. When the coronary artery is damaged, plaque (made of cholesterol) and other cellular waste will build up and cause the surface to rupture. When the artery lining breaks, platelets will gather and try to repair the artery. If the artery is blocked by the clumping of the platelets, it can cause a heart attack.
SYMPTOMS
Coronary Artery signs and symptoms include:
- Chest Pain – You may feel tightness or pressure in the middle or left side of your chest.
- Shortness of Breath – Fatigue or shortness of breath can occur when your heart cannot sufficiently pump enough blood throughout your body.
- Heart Attack – Sweating, shortness of breath and intense pressure in your chest, shoulder or arm are all common signs of a heart attack which is caused by a completely blocked coronary artery.
*Stock photographs and artwork are for illustrative purposes only. This article contains general information about medical conditions and treatments. The information is not advice, and should not be treated as such. You must not rely on this article as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other healthcare providers.