-
Epic Heart &
Vascular Care
- Primary Care Mulitspeciality Practice
- Epic Heart & Vascular Care
- Primary Care Mulitspeciality Practice
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common cause of heart attacks. CAD happens when the arteries that supply the heart become narrowed due to plaque buildup (called atherosclerosis).
A heart attack occurs when a piece of this plaque ruptures, triggering a blood clot that blocks the artery. This cuts off blood and oxygen to part of the heart, causing heart muscle damage or even death.
Think of CAD as the long-term problem that sets the stage—and the heart attack as the emergency event.
The biggest risk factors—many of which can be managed—include:
Other risk factors include family history and age, which can’t be changed but are important to know. Managing these risks is key to prevention.
The most common symptom is angina, which feels like:
It often happens during activity or stress and can get better with rest.
Other warning signs:
Some people, especially women, may feel:
Symptoms can be mild or go unnoticed, so any unexplained chest pain or breathing difficulty should be checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Doctors use several tools:
In a suspected heart attack, doctors use an ECG and blood tests for heart enzymes like troponin to confirm damage. Emergency angiography may follow.
For CAD:
The best course of action is taking steps to manage risk factors:
Even small changes can make a big difference over time.
Without treatment, CAD worsens over time, leading to:
An untreated heart attack can cause:
Immediate medical care can save the heart muscle and lives.
CAD and heart attacks can lead to:
All of these stem from the same problem: plaque buildup in arteries throughout the body.
Coronary Artery Disease is serious—but manageable. Know your risk, recognize symptoms early, and work with your doctor to protect your heart. Early action can prevent heart attacks and save lives.
Our clinic provides comprehensive cardiac care, from acute treatment to ongoing follow-up, for patients throughout the greater Hudson Valley. Schedule an appointment with our team through our convenient online scheduling form or by calling 877-EPIC-DOC (877-3742-362).
Remember: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your cardiologist or healthcare provider for personalized diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies for heart failure.
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