Understanding coronary artery disease?
CAD is a condition that occurs when there is a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This buildup of plaque narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to chest pain or discomfort known as angina which is described as a tightness, pressure, squeezing, or burning sensation in the chest. The pain can also be felt in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back. Angina can be stable, unstable, or variant, and the symptoms can vary in intensity, duration, and frequency.
Symptoms of CAD
- Chest pain or discomfort: This is the most common symptom of CAD. The pain may feel like pressure or squeezing in the chest, and it may be triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress. The pain may also spread to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back.
- Shortness of breath: You may feel short of breath or have difficulty breathing, especially when you're active or lying down.
- Fatigue: You may feel more tired than usual, even after getting enough rest.
- Weakness: You may feel weak or lightheaded, especially during physical activity.
- Palpitations: You may feel like your heart is racing, pounding, or skipping beats.
- Nausea or vomiting: You may feel sick to your stomach or vomit, especially if you're experiencing chest pain.
- Sweating: You may break out in a cold sweat, especially if you're experiencing chest pain.
- Dizziness: You may feel dizzy or faint, especially if you're standing up or moving around.
Here are some pointers to help you recognise chest pain in CAD:
- Location: Chest pain in CAD usually occurs in the center of the chest, behind the breastbone. The pain may also spread to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back.
- Quality: The pain is typically described as pressure, squeezing, or tightness in the chest. It may feel like a heavy weight is pressing down on the chest.
- Duration: The pain may last for several minutes or longer. It may come and go or be constant.
- Triggers: Chest pain in CAD may be triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress. It may also occur after a heavy meal or in cold weather.
Here are some tips on how to take care of a patient with CAD:
- Monitor and manage risk factors: Encourage the patient to make lifestyle changes that can help manage CAD risk factors, such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and controlling high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
- Medication management: Ensure the patient is taking all prescribed medications as directed. Medications such as aspirin, beta-blockers, nitroglycerin, and statins may be prescribed to help manage symptoms and prevent further complications.
- Follow a heart-healthy diet: Encourage the patient to follow a heart-healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help manage CAD.
- Regular follow-up: Ensure the patient is attending regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider. Regular checkups can help monitor the progression of CAD and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
- Encourage physical activity: Physical activity is important for maintaining heart health. Ask the patient to engage in regular physical activity as recommended by their healthcare provider.
- Manage stress: Stress can have a negative impact on heart health. The patient to manage stress through techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or counseling.
