Coronary artery disease: the basics
What is it?
Coronary artery disease develops as cholesterol plaques build up in the arteries that feed the heart. Plaques narrow the vessel and reduce blood flow.
Risk factors
High blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, inactivity, excess weight and family history are the main risk factors. Risk rises with age.
Detection
It is assessed with ECG, echocardiography, stress tests and, when needed, angiography. Early detection widens the treatment options.
This is general patient education, not individual medical advice. Do not stop or change medicines yourself. Fast or make other preparations only when instructed by your care team.
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