Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, which are the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. As plaque accumulates, the arteries become narrower, reducing blood flow to the heart. Over time, the lack of oxygen and nutrients can damage the heart muscle, leading to chest pain (angina), heart attack, heart failure, and even death.

Several factors contribute to the development of coronary artery disease, including:

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Smoking
Diabetes
Obesity
Lack of physical activity
Family history of heart disease

Coronary artery disease may cause no symptoms, particularly in the early stages. However, as the arteries become more narrowed, you may experience:

Chest pain or discomfort (angina), especially during physical activity or emotional stress
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Nausea
Sweating
Dizziness
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, as they could indicate a heart attack or other serious condition.

The treatment of CAD depends on the severity of the condition and the individual patient's needs. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet, are often the first step in managing CAD. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and other risk factors. In some cases, a procedure called angioplasty may be performed to open up the blocked or narrowed arteries, or bypass surgery may be needed to redirect blood flow around the blocked area.