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CardiovascularICD-10: I25.10Affects approximately 20 million Americans aged 20 and older

Coronary Artery Disease

Also known as: CAD, Coronary Heart Disease, Ischemic Heart Disease, Atherosclerotic Heart Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death worldwide. It develops when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked by atherosclerotic plaque buildup. CAD can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attack, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death, but it is largely preventable through lifestyle modifications and treatable with medications and procedures.

Symptoms

Chest pain or discomfort (angina) during exertion or stress
Shortness of breath
Heart attack symptoms (crushing chest pain, arm/jaw pain, sweating, nausea)
Fatigue with physical activity
Heart palpitations
Dizziness or lightheadedness
May be asymptomatic until a heart attack occurs

Causes

  • Atherosclerosis (buildup of cholesterol-rich plaque in artery walls)
  • Endothelial damage from smoking, hypertension, or diabetes
  • Chronic inflammation contributing to plaque instability
  • Plaque rupture leading to blood clot formation and heart attack

Risk Factors

  • High blood pressure
  • High LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Obesity and physical inactivity
  • Family history of premature heart disease

Diagnosis

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect ischemia or prior heart attack
  • Stress testing (exercise or pharmacological)
  • Coronary calcium scoring (CT scan)
  • Coronary angiography (cardiac catheterization)—gold standard
  • CT coronary angiography for non-invasive evaluation

Treatment

  • Lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, weight loss)
  • Statins and other cholesterol-lowering medications
  • Antiplatelet therapy (aspirin, clopidogrel)
  • Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors
  • Percutaneous coronary intervention (angioplasty with stenting)
  • Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for extensive disease

Prevention

  • Adopt a heart-healthy diet (Mediterranean, DASH)
  • Exercise for at least 150 minutes per week
  • Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
  • Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
  • Maintain a healthy weight and manage stress

When to See a Doctor

  • You experience chest pain, especially during physical activity or stress
  • Sudden severe chest pain with sweating, nausea, or arm/jaw pain—call 911
  • You have multiple risk factors and have not been screened
  • You become increasingly short of breath with routine activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Angina Pectoris

Cardiovascular

High Cholesterol

Cardiovascular

Atrial Fibrillation

Cardiovascular

Type 2 Diabetes

Endocrine

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

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