Coronary artery disease

by Stella Zhang

Description

     Coronary artery disease is the disease of narrowing or blockage of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is the main cause of coronary disease. Cardiac arrest is often caused by artery disease. Cholesterol and fatty plaques can cause the blockage to happen. Once the blockage is in place, blood circulation to heart muscle will be restricted or stopped and therefore causing cardiac malfunctions. When blood flow is restricted, the heart will have limited supply of oxygens and can cause permanent damage to multiple organs and human brains. Patients often experience pain and discomfort in the chest as well as shortness of breath.

Treatment

     As descried in the previous paragraph, fatty cells and cholesterol can cause the blockage and therefore physical exercise can be a preventative measure. Life style plays an important role. Having a healthy level of cholesterol and fat is crucial to have a healthy heart. When cardiac arrest happens, the most common treatment is to perform the CPR. Quitting smoking can lower one’s risk of developing coronary disease as well. Echocardiogram and other physical exams are important to monitor the heart condition.

Data

     The elderly with age above 70 has a higher chance of developing coronary diseases. If a family member was diagnosed with coronary disease before the age of 50, it is more than likely than you will also have similar problems. There are more than 3 million cases in the US each year and most are associated with high obesity and advanced age. 

Reference URLs:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16898-coronary-artery-disease

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronary-artery-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350613

https://www.healthline.com/health/coronary-artery-disease