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Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the narrowing of coronary arteries due to plaque buildup — a leading cause of heart attacks.

Illustration of a human heart and coronary arteries affected by plaque buildup

Overview

Doctor reviewing a coronary angiogram showing narrowed coronary arteries

Coronary artery disease is a condition where the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked by a buildup of cholesterol and plaque. This reduces blood flow to the heart and can lead to chest pain (angina) or a heart attack.

CAD is the most common type of heart disease worldwide. It develops slowly over decades, so early risk-factor management and regular check-ups are key to preventing serious complications.

Symptoms

Infographic-style image showing common symptoms of coronary artery disease such as chest pain and shortness of breath

Symptoms include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and fatigue. Sometimes the first symptom is a heart attack.

  • Chest pain or pressure, especially during exertion
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance
  • Pain radiating to the arm, jaw, neck, or back
  • Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
  • Dizziness or fainting

Causes

Close-up of a blocked artery illustrating atherosclerosis, the main cause of coronary artery disease

CAD is caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes.

  • High LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Smoking and tobacco use
  • Diabetes and insulin resistance
  • Obesity and physical inactivity
  • Family history of early heart disease
  • Age (men 45+, women 55+)

Treatment

Cardiologist discussing coronary artery disease treatment options with a patient

Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications (statins, aspirin, beta-blockers), and procedures (angioplasty, stenting, bypass surgery).

  • Heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation
  • Statins to lower cholesterol and stabilise plaque
  • Aspirin and antiplatelet therapy
  • Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and nitrates
  • Angioplasty and stenting to open narrowed arteries
  • Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery for severe disease
  • Cardiac rehabilitation and ongoing monitoring

When to See a Doctor

Doctor holding a stethoscope ready to examine a patient for signs of coronary artery disease

If you have chest pain or symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Seek emergency care if chest pain lasts more than a few minutes, spreads to the arm or jaw, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or fainting.

Even without severe symptoms, talk to a healthcare provider if you have multiple risk factors — early screening can catch CAD before complications occur.