CAD Heart Facts
Always be mindful of your health… Never take a symptom for granted, and always be sure to attend your regular doctor appointments.
Here are a Few Simple Facts about Heart Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease, is a chronic condition that occurs when plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle. This plaque is made up of cholesterol and other substances and can partially or completely block blood flow. CAD is the most common cardiovascular disease.
Symptoms of CAD can range from none to more frequent and intense, including:
· Chest pain, fullness, or pressure (angina)
· Fatigue
· Heart palpitations
· Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
· Swelling in the hands or feet
CAD can be diagnosed by a medical professional using lab tests, ECGs, echocardiograms, or other imaging tests. There is no known cure, but CAD can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, angioplasty, or surgery to improve symptoms. Some recommended lifestyle changes include:
· High levels of physical activity (200 to 300 minutes per week)
· Low-calorie diet (800 to 1500 kcal/day)
· Weight-loss maintenance programs
· Eating a healthy, balanced diet that's low in fat and high in fiber, with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and no more than 6g (0.2oz) of salt per day
· Avoiding tobacco use
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What Is Coronary Heart Disease? | NHLBI, NIH
National Institutes of Health (NIH) (.gov)
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About Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) - CDC
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | CDC (.gov)
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Coronary Artery Disease Prevention - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
National Institutes of Health (NIH) (.gov)
· Show all
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. Generative AI is experimental.
Featured snippet from the web
Coronary artery disease, also called CAD, is a condition that affects your heart. It is the most common heart disease in the United States. CAD happens when coronary arteries struggle to supply the heart with enough blood, oxygen and nutrients. Cholesterol deposits, or plaques, are almost always to blame.