Understanding Coronary Artery Disease: Lifestyle Changes & Remedies

  • 05 Feb 2025
Simple lifestyle changes that help Coronary Artery Disease

Key highlights or summary

  • Plaque buildup in coronary arteries restricts blood flow, leading to angina, heart attacks, and coronary artery disease heart failure..
  • Chronic, acute, asymptomatic, and microvascular CAD each carry unique risks, emphasizing the need for early detection.
  • Untreated CAD can cause ischemia, arrhythmias, or sudden cardiac arrest.
  • Adopting a plant-based diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking can reduce CAD risks.
  • Recognizing symptoms like chest discomfort or shortness of breath and undergoing regular checkups are crucial for prevention and management.

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Frequently asked questions

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition caused by narrowed or blocked coronary arteries due to plaque buildup, while ischemic heart disease encompasses all conditions where reduced blood flow (ischemia) affects the heart. CAD is a leading cause of ischemic heart disease.

Yes, coronary heart disease and coronary artery disease refer to the same condition, involving plaque buildup in coronary arteries that restricts blood flow to the heart, causing complications.

Atherosclerosis is the most common cause. This is when a mix of cholesterol, fats, and other substances builds up in the coronary arteries. As a result, blood flow is restricted and there is an increase in the risk of complications like coronary artery disease heart failure.

Smoking damages blood vessel walls, accelerates atherosclerosis, and reduces oxygen delivery to the heart. It also raises blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Coronary artery disease is diagnosed through tests like an ECG, stress test, echocardiogram, or coronary angiography. Blood tests measuring cholesterol and markers of inflammation also help detect CAD in early or asymptomatic stages. 

No, acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a severe, sudden manifestation of coronary artery disease, involving partial or complete coronary artery blockage. CAD disease is the broader condition that can progress to ACS if untreated.

Three-vessel CAD disease is when all three major coronary arteries are significantly narrowed or blocked. This condition severely impacts heart function and increases the risk of coronary artery disease heart failure.

Heart-healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. Opt for heart-friendly fats like avocados and olive oil, and avoid processed foods. A vegan-friendly Mediterranean or DASH diet supports prevention and management of CAD.

CAD occurs where the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked. This pathology of coronary artery disease leads to reduced blood flow, increasing risks of angina, heart attacks, and coronary artery disease heart failure.