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Coronary Artery Disease

A serious condition caused by narrowing of the arteries that supply the heart, predisposing to heart attack.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to plaques formed by deposits of fat, cholesterol, and other substances within the vessel wall. This buildup is called atherosclerosis.

Narrowing of the arteries reduces blood flow to the heart muscle. During exertion this can produce chest pain (angina pectoris), and in the event of sudden complete blockage it can lead to a heart attack (myocardial infarction). CAD is the leading cause of cardiovascular death worldwide.

Early diagnosis and treatment can slow disease progression and reduce the risk of a heart attack. Control of risk factors and regular cardiology follow-up are essential.

Symptoms

Chest pain, tightness, or pressure during exertion (angina)
Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, or back
Shortness of breath on exertion
Fatigue and weakness
Palpitations and irregular heartbeat
Nausea or indigestion (particularly in women)
Cold sweats and dizziness

Risk Factors

Tobacco use
Hypertension and diabetes
Elevated LDL cholesterol
Obesity and physical inactivity
Family history of early heart disease
Male sex and advancing age
Stress and depression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If you experience chest pain at rest or with minimal exertion
  • Seek emergency care if chest pain lasts longer than 15–20 minutes
  • When shortness of breath, sweating, or palpitations accompany the pain
  • If symptoms change in someone with a prior CAD diagnosis
  • For routine cardiology evaluation in individuals with multiple risk factors

Treatment Methods

01
Medical therapy such as aspirin and statins (plaque stabilization and clot prevention)
02
Beta-blockers, nitrates, and calcium-channel blockers (angina management)
03
Percutaneous coronary intervention (angioplasty and stent)
04
Coronary artery bypass grafting (in multivessel disease)
05
Smoking cessation, dietary modification, and exercise program
06
Tight control of diabetes and hypertension

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Heart Failure

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Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

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Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

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Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

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Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Peripheral Artery Disease

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Peripheral artery disease can cause leg pain with walking (claudication) and, in advanced stages, tissue loss.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.