What Is Coronary Artery Disease and How Does It Affect Your Heart?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most common heart conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, leading to reduced blood flow. Over time, CAD can significantly impact heart health, increasing the risk of heart attack and other complications. Your doctors at Central PA Physicians Group in Everett, Roaring Spring, Patton, State College, and Altoona, PA, can explain coronary artery disease and how it affects your heart.

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease develops when the coronary arteries, responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, become damaged or diseased. The primary culprit is atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits (plaque) build up along the walls of the arteries. The reduced blood flow caused by CAD limits the amount of oxygen and nutrients reaching the heart muscle. This can lead to symptoms like chest pain or, in severe cases, a heart attack if blood flow is completely blocked. 

It’s important to talk to your doctor in Everett, Roaring Spring, Patton, State College, and Altoona, PA, about symptoms of coronary artery disease and what factors you may have. CAD symptoms often develop gradually and may vary based on the severity of the condition. Some patients may experience no symptoms at all. Common symptoms include: 

• Chest pain or discomfort 
• Shortness of breath 
• Fatigue 
• Heart attack symptoms 

Factors that increase your chance of dealing with CAD include: 

• Smoking 
• Poor diet 
• Lack of physical activity 
• High blood pressure 
• High cholesterol 
• Diabetes 
• Obesity 
• Family history of heart disease 

While CAD is a chronic condition, it can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some cases, surgical interventions.

Contact Our Doctors Today

Make sure you understand how to keep your heart healthy! Contact your doctors at Central PA Physicians Group in Everett, Roaring Spring, Patton, State College, and Altoona, PA, to learn more about coronary artery disease and how it could affect you. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (814) 201-2309.