Michael Seawell, MD
DHR Health Heart Institute
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and worldwide. Coronary artery disease in the most common form of heart disease and is due to decreased blood flow to the heart muscle as a result of plaque build-up in the arterial walls; it is also called atherosclerosis. It is important to understand that this disease begins in men and women in their 20s and can progress without symptoms for decades.
The development and progression of coronary artery disease is complex and depends on several risk factors, including age; high blood pressure; high cholesterol; diabetes; obesity; smoking; drug use, especially cocaine and amphetamines; family history; and physical activity.
Coronary artery disease can lead to a heart attack, angina, exercise intolerance, heart failure and death. The initial manifestation can range from mild angina pectoris to a fatal heart attack. Without treatment, this disease is progressive; however, progression can be blunted with treatment of the known risk factors. Early intervention and treatment is vital to prevent complications and irreversible damage.
While there are certain risk factors that cannot be changed, such as age and sex, there are treatments for others that can decrease the progression of coronary artery disease and lower the incidence of events (such as a heart attack). For example, treatment of blood pressure to a goal of lower than 120/80 can decrease the risk of worsening coronary artery disease and a heart attack. Prevention of–or tight control of–diabetes will decrease risk, as will weight loss and regular exercise, consisting of a combination of 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise. Additionally, avoidance or cessation of smoking and drug use, as well as lowering your cholesterol and triglycerides, likewise will reduce the progression of coronary artery disease.
Coronary artery disease is ever present in our society and can lead to severe complications and death. The disease is often silently progressive for many years before symptoms occur. However, early intervention can prevent progression of the disease, as well as life-altering complications associated with it. It is important to control your risk factors and address any concerning symptoms, such as chest pain, exercise intolerance, and shortness of breath.
If you have any concerns with your heart health, please contact the DHR Health Heart Institute at (956) 362-8740.
