Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of heart attacks and cardiovascular deaths in India. It occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup—a condition called atherosclerosis. Early diagnosis and the right treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
As a Consultant Interventional Cardiologist in Latur, Dr. Mehul Rathod emphasizes the importance of awareness, timely intervention, and lifestyle changes in managing CAD effectively.
What Is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?
Coronary Artery Disease is a condition where the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or hardened due to the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaque). This reduces blood flow to the heart, leading to symptoms like:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue during physical activity
- Heart palpitations
If the blood flow becomes completely blocked, it can cause a heart attack (myocardial infarction)—a medical emergency.
What Causes CAD?
Several risk factors contribute to the development of coronary artery disease:
- High blood pressure (Hypertension)
- High cholesterol levels
- Diabetes
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
- Unhealthy diet
- Stress
- Family history of heart disease
People with multiple risk factors are at a much higher chance of developing CAD earlier in life.
How Is CAD Diagnosed?
Diagnosing coronary artery disease involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and specialized tests, such as:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Checks the heart’s electrical activity
- Echocardiogram – Visualizes the heart’s structure and function
- Treadmill Test (TMT) – Monitors heart function during exercise
- CT Coronary Angiography – Detects plaque buildup in the coronary arteries
- Coronary Angiography – A gold-standard test using a dye to see blockages in real-time through X-rays
Treatment Options for Coronary Artery Disease
The treatment of CAD depends on the severity of the blockage and the overall condition of the patient. Dr. Mehul Rathod offers both medical and interventional approaches tailored to each patient’s needs.
1. Lifestyle Changes
Mild or early-stage CAD can often be managed through strict lifestyle modifications, including:
- A heart-healthy diet (low in saturated fats, high in fruits and vegetables)
- Regular physical activity (as advised by your cardiologist)
- Weight loss
- Quitting smoking and alcohol
- Stress management through yoga, meditation, or counseling
2. Medications
Medicines are prescribed to manage risk factors and symptoms, such as:
- Antiplatelet drugs (like aspirin) to prevent blood clots
- Statins to lower cholesterol
- Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers to reduce blood pressure and workload on the heart
- Nitrates to relieve chest pain
- Diabetes medications (if applicable)
These medications are typically long-term and require regular follow-up.
3. Interventional Procedures
For moderate to severe blockages, interventional cardiology procedures may be needed:
- Angioplasty (PTCA): A thin tube with a balloon is inserted into the blocked artery. The balloon is inflated to widen the artery and improve blood flow.
- Stent Placement: A small mesh tube (stent) is placed inside the artery to keep it open after angioplasty. Drug-eluting stents are commonly used today to reduce the risk of future blockage.
These procedures are minimally invasive and usually done under local anesthesia with quick recovery times.
4. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)
In cases with multiple blockages or if angioplasty is not feasible, bypass surgery may be recommended. A healthy blood vessel is taken from another part of the body and used to bypass the blocked arteries.
Preventing Coronary Artery Disease
Prevention is better than cure. Dr. Mehul Rathod strongly advocates for regular heart health check-ups, especially if you have a family history or other risk factors.
- Key preventive tips include:
- Annual health screenings
- Controlling diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Staying physically active
- Avoiding smoking and tobacco in all forms
Coronary Artery Disease is a serious but manageable condition when diagnosed early and treated appropriately. Whether through lifestyle changes, medications, or advanced interventional procedures, the goal is to restore heart health and prevent future cardiac events.
If you're experiencing chest discomfort, breathlessness, or have risk factors for heart disease, don’t ignore the signs. Book a consultation with Dr. Mehul Rathod, leading Interventional Cardiologist in Latur, to take proactive steps toward a healthier heart.
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