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The Answered Patient: Understanding Heart Disease

Monday, July 19, 2010 | 12:18 PM

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States for both men and women. And more than 15 million Americans currently suffer from it. With statistics like those, it's no wonder doctors urge their patients to do all they can to prevent this disease from striking, and seek out help at the first signs of a problem.

In this episode of "Say Ahh!" you'll learn about the most common form of heart disease, known as coronary artery disease, including:

  • Risk factors
  • Signs and symptoms
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment through simple lifestyle changes
Coronary artery disease, or C.A.D., occurs when the blood supply to the heart is partially or totally blocked. It's caused by the gradual buildup of cholesterol and other fatty deposits in the coronary arteries, the large blood vessels that feed the heart. Over time, this condition, known as atherosclerosis, can harden and narrow the artery walls, decreasing the amount of blood the heart receives.

Doctors have identified a host of risk factors associated with C.A.D.:

  • Family history
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • High-fat and high-cholesterol diets
The most common symptom of C.A.D. is angina, or chest pain. Other warning signs include shortness of breath, a faster heartbeat, weakness, dizziness, or sweating. Doctors recommend seeking help at the first sign of symptoms.

If your doctor determines the potential presence of C.A.D., there are a number of tests that can be performed to confirm a diagnosis:

  • Electrocardiogram (EKG)
  • Echocardiogram
  • Nuclear scan test
  • Magnetic resonance imaging test (MRI)
  • Computed tomography (CT scan)
  • Coronary angiogram
If left undiagnosed, the most serious and life-threatening result of heart disease is a myocardial infarction, or what's commonly known as a heart attack.

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The good news is there are a variety of options available for treating heart disease including medication, coronary angioplasty, and coronary artery bypass surgery.

While these treatments are effective, doctors agree that patients with C.A.D. -- or those at risk of developing it -- need to make lifestyle changes to see the best results. A diet containing fish, poultry, lean meats, low-fat or non-fat dairy products, and plenty of fruits and vegetables can help lower your cholesterol and blood pressure. And regular exercise can play a key role in reducing the risk of C.A.D.

For more information, click the links below.