Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is one of the most common heart conditions and develops when the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle narrow or become blocked. This usually happens because of a gradual buildup of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances inside the artery walls, a process known as atherosclerosis.
Reduced blood flow to the heart can cause chest discomfort, especially during physical activity or emotional stress. Some people may also experience shortness of breath, tiredness, sweating, dizziness, or pain that spreads to the arm, shoulder, neck, jaw, or back. In some cases, CAD may not cause noticeable symptoms until the disease becomes advanced or a heart attack occurs.
Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, increasing age, and a family history of heart disease. Management depends on the severity of the condition and may involve lifestyle changes, medicines, or procedures to improve blood flow to the heart.
