Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Overview

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in India and worldwide. It occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque, a condition called atherosclerosis. This reduced blood flow can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and, in severe cases, heart attacks.

CAD is a major public health concern in India due to changing lifestyles, increasing stress levels, poor diet, lack of exercise, and rising rates of diabetes and hypertension. According to current statistics, CAD affects millions of people across all age groups, with a significant rise seen in younger individuals over the last decade.

At Park Group of Hospitals, we offer comprehensive diagnosis, management, and treatment of coronary artery disease through a multidisciplinary team of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and rehabilitation specialists. Our hospitals are located across in Delhi, Gurugram (Sec-47, Palam Vihar, Sec-37 D), Faridabad, Sonipat, Panipat, Karnal, Ambala, Patiala, Mohali, Bathinda, Behror, and Jaipur, ensuring timely and advanced cardiac care across the region. For 24x7 emergency cardiac support, call our helpline at +91 99166 99166.

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a condition that affects the blood vessels supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart. Over time, these arteries can become clogged or narrowed due to the buildup of a substance called plaque. This condition is also known as atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits made of cholesterol and other substances accumulate along the artery walls.

As the arteries narrow, it becomes harder for blood to reach the heart muscle. This can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or fatigue. In more serious cases, it may result in a heart attack if a blood vessel becomes completely blocked.

Coronary Artery Disease is the most common type of heart disease and one of the leading causes of death worldwide. However, with timely diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and appropriate treatment, CAD can be effectively managed, allowing individuals to lead a healthier and more active life.

Causes of Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease develops gradually and is often the result of a combination of lifestyle habits and medical conditions. The most common cause is atherosclerosis, which refers to the buildup of fatty deposits known as plaque on the inner walls of the coronary arteries.

• High cholesterol levels
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Family history of heart disease
• Unhealthy diet (high in salt, fat, and sugar)
• Chronic stress

Understanding and managing these risk factors through lifestyle changes, routine health checks, and proper medical care can help prevent the progression of coronary artery disease.

Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease often develops slowly, and in many cases, there are no symptoms until the arteries become severely narrowed or blocked.

• Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or weakness
• Palpitations (irregular heartbeat)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea, sweating
• Heart attack (in severe cases)

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially chest pain or breathlessness, seek medical attention immediately.

Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease

At Park Group of Hospitals, our cardiologists use advanced diagnostic methods to detect CAD:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Echocardiogram
• Treadmill Stress Test (TMT)
• Coronary Angiography
• CT Coronary Angiogram

These tests help determine the stage of the disease and guide the right treatment plan.

Treatment of Coronary Artery Disease

The treatment plan depends on the severity of the blockage and the patient’s overall health:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, managing stress
• Medications: Antiplatelets, statins, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, nitrates
• Procedures:
  • Angioplasty with stent placement
  • Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG)

Risk Factors of Coronary Artery Disease

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Family history
• Poor diet
• Stress

Preventive Care for Coronary Artery Disease

Simple lifestyle changes can prevent or delay CAD:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet (low salt, low fat, high fiber)
• Stay physically active (at least 30 minutes daily)
• Quit smoking
• Manage stress
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Get regular health checkups
• Limit alcohol consumption

For more information, visit the National Health Portal of India (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare).

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a cardiologist if you experience:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained fatigue
• Palpitations
• Dizziness, nausea, or sweating

Even without symptoms, get a check-up if you have risk factors like high BP, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, or family history of CAD.

Why Choose Park Group of Hospitals for CAD Treatment

• Experienced cardiologists and cardiac surgeons
• Advanced technology (cath labs, imaging, robotic assistance)
• Comprehensive care from diagnosis to rehabilitation
• 24x7 emergency cardiac services at +91 99166 99166
• Presence across Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Panipat, Karnal, Ambala, Patiala, Mohali, Bathinda, Behror, and Jaipur

Conclusion

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is preventable and manageable with timely diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and the right treatment. At Park Group of Hospitals, we provide complete care — from prevention and medications to advanced cardiac procedures. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Schedule regular heart checkups, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease.