Services Cardiology Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

The cardiologists at Hattiesburg Clinic have decades of experience treating coronary artery disease.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Overview

Coronary artery disease (sometimes referred to as CAD) is a common and serious condition that occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. When this mixture of fat, cholesterol and other substances affects the arteries, it is known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis restricts blood flow and reduces oxygen to the heart, which can lead to symptoms like chest pain (angina) and, in severe cases, heart attacks.

What is coronary artery disease?
Coronary Artery Disease Symptoms
Risk Factors of Developing Coronary Artery Disease
Treatment for Coronary Artery Disease
Choose Hattiesburg Clinic

What is coronary artery disease?

Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, often developing over decades without noticeable symptoms until significant artery blockage occurs. Early detection, lifestyle changes and medical interventions are essential for managing the disease and preventing complications. If not managed effectively, coronary artery disease can result in a variety of serious health conditions like irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias), heart failure and heart disease.

Coronary Artery Disease Symptoms

Coronary artery disease is often “silent,” meaning no known symptoms are present. Someone can have coronary artery disease for years before being diagnosed. Often, a diagnosis occurs after heart function is severely diminished, and a serious complication like a heart attack has already occurred.

It is important to see your doctor regularly and a cardiologist if you or your family has a history of heart problems. Pay special attention and alert your doctor if you notice any of the following coronary artery disease symptoms:

Chest pressure or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Fatigue/weakness
Dizziness/lightheadedness
Stomach pain/nausea/indigestion
Sleep problems/cold sweats
Neck pain

Although chest pain is a symptom of coronary artery disease, it is also a sign of heart attack. Call 911 immediately if you have chest pain to have your symptoms evaluated.

Risk Factors of Developing Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease affects people of all ages and genders, but certain factors can increase your risk. These risk factors include:

Having a family history of coronary artery disease
Being a man aged 45 or older, or a woman aged 55 or older
Smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke
Consuming a diet high in saturated fat, excess sodium and added sugars
Living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, kidney disease, metabolic syndrome or sleep apnea
Developing gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during pregnancy
Exposure to environmental pollutants
Undergoing early menopause before age 40
Leading a sedentary lifestyle
Not getting enough quality sleep
Experiencing chronic stress

If you have any of these risk factors, your doctor may recommend screenings and preventive measures to help reduce your risk.

Treatment for Coronary Artery Disease

If you are diagnosed with coronary artery disease, your doctor will likely perform a 10-year risk assessment to evaluate the severity of your condition and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Coronary artery disease treatment will typically involve adopting heart-healthy lifestyle habits. This can include a mixture or all of the following:

Maintaining a healthy weight
Exercising regularly
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Managing stress effectively
Quitting smoking
Prioritizing good, quality sleep

Additional treatment options will depend on your specific symptoms and the severity of your condition. These may include:

Prescription medications to manage risk factors
Interventional cardiology procedures, such as angioplasty with or without stent placement
Coronary artery bypass grafting procedure

Choose Hattiesburg Clinic

Hattiesburg Clinic is proud to offer expert cardiology services to patients throughout Mississippi. As a trusted leader in the region, we provide specialized, comprehensive care with a collaborative, team-based approach. With multiple specialties under our one clinic, our doctors can better communicate efficiently and work together to address your health concerns. Our cardiologists stay updated on the latest research, technology and treatment methods, partnering with your other health care providers to ensure the best possible outcomes. Contact our team to learn more or begin your care.