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Coronary artery disease, or CAD, is the narrowing and hardening of the arteries near the heart. This disease is extremely common in the United States. Over three million individuals are diagnosed with the disease each year. While this disease is widespread, it is preventable if you take a proactive approach to your health. Learn more about the risk factors, symptoms, and diagnostic tests for CAD.
Our team at Heart of Dixie Cardiology can help you find the right steps to avoid or work through CAD. If you have a history of heart disease or suspect you might be developing it, reach out to our professionals in St. George, Cedar City, and Mesquite.
You can develop coronary artery disease throughout your life, but certain factors increase your odds of having CAD.
Cigarette smoke damages your heart and blood vessels. Additionally, smoking causes plaque to build up in your arteries, leading to CAD and several other types of heart disease.
High blood pressure slowly damages the inner lining of your arteries. Fats and calcium can build in these damaged areas, narrowing the arteries and making it more difficult for blood to flow.
Your blood cholesterol levels are excellent indicators of your risk of developing coronary heart disease. Too high of LDL cholesterol, or too low HDL cholesterol, is dangerous.
Exercise helps keep your cholesterol in check, lowers your blood pressure, and improves your overall heart health. Without exercise, your heart health decreases, creating a higher risk of heart disease.
Being overweight affects your cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and it can lead to diabetes. All three categories directly influence your risk of developing coronary artery disease.
Diabetes often includes higher blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure, all of which can lead to heart disease. People with diabetes are two to four more times likely to develop a form of cardiovascular disease.
Your heart and blood vessels change as you age, becoming slower and stiffer. Additionally, calcium, fat, and plaque build up over time to create large and problematic deposits.
If you have a family history of heart problems, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure, you have a higher risk of developing heart disease.
Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and foods with high amounts of fiber are better for your heart health. Avoid foods high in sugar, salt, and fat to prevent extra stress on your heart and blood vessels.
CAD has a diverse set of symptoms, but some people may not notice any symptoms before experiencing a heart attack or heart failure. Some of the most common symptoms associated with CAD include:
CAD can be diagnosed in several ways. Our experienced team of healthcare providers will choose the best test for your situation and needs. Our professionals may perform any of the following tests to diagnose CAD.
An echocardiogram, also known as an EKG or ECG test, is a quick and painless way to find if your heart is beating normally. This test is the most common way to detect heart disease.
Sometimes referred to as a coronary angiography or cardiac catheterization, a coronary angiogram uses an X-ray and contrast material to see how well blood flows to your heart.
A chest x-ray shows how your heart, blood vessels, lungs, and bones are working. This x-ray can detect calcium and fat in your heart, both of which can lead to CAD.
An exercise stress test is a simple way to find how your heart works during physical activity. Typically, you’ll be asked to exercise on a treadmill while being connected to an EKG machine.
This specialized X-ray takes several pictures of the heart to check for calcium and plaque buildup in your arteries. A high score indicates an increased risk of developing heart disease.
Get the professional care you deserve when you come to Heart of Dixie Cardiology. We have a team of highly trained and qualified individuals to help you find the right care for your heart. Whether you have been diagnosed with CAD or need treatment for vascular disease, you are in good hands. Visit us in one of our locations or contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Heart of Dixie Cardiology is a specialty subset of the Revere Health group. We have over a dozen cardiology providers throughout our locations to give you the specialized heart care that you deserve.
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