Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease occurs when the coronary arteries (the arteries that deliver blood to your heart) become narrowed or damaged. This usually occurs due to a buildup of plaque. Significant buildup in these arteries can put you at risk for a heart attack. Some symptoms of coronary artery disease are:
- Episodes of chest pain or pressure
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Pain in shoulder or arm
To treat coronary artery disease, your doctor may put you on medications including blood thinners, beta blockers, and medications that will treat high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Your doctor may also perform an angioplasty – in this procedure, a stent is inserted to the narrowed part of your coronary artery. The stent, which is shaped like a hollow mesh tube, will widen the artery and keep it open, improving blood flow to your heart muscles.