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Coronary Artery Disease

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Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked by a buildup of plaque, a sticky substance made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances.

Causes of CAD

CAD is caused by a combination of factors, including:

  • High cholesterol levels
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Physical inactivity
  • Family history of CAD

Symptoms of CAD

The most common symptom of CAD is chest pain, also known as angina. Angina typically occurs when the heart is working harder than usual, such as during exercise or emotional stress. It can feel like a pressure, tightness, or burning sensation in the chest that lasts for a few minutes and goes away with rest.

Other symptoms of CAD can include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Lightheadedness or dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Pain in the neck, jaw, back, or arms

Diagnosis of CAD

CAD is diagnosed based on a physical exam, medical history, and various tests, such as:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • Echocardiogram
  • Stress test
  • Coronary angiogram

Treatment of CAD

Read more

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked by a buildup of plaque, a sticky substance made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances.

Causes of CAD

CAD is caused by a combination of factors, including:

  • High cholesterol levels
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Physical inactivity
  • Family history of CAD

Symptoms of CAD

The most common symptom of CAD is chest pain, also known as angina. Angina typically occurs when the heart is working harder than usual, such as during exercise or emotional stress. It can feel like a pressure, tightness, or burning sensation in the chest that lasts for a few minutes and goes away with rest.

Other symptoms of CAD can include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Lightheadedness or dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Pain in the neck, jaw, back, or arms

Diagnosis of CAD

CAD is diagnosed based on a physical exam, medical history, and various tests, such as:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • Echocardiogram
  • Stress test
  • Coronary angiogram

Treatment of CAD

The treatment for CAD depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

  • Medications to lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and improve blood flow
  • Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise
  • Procedures to open or bypass narrowed or blocked arteries, such as angioplasty, stenting, or coronary artery bypass grafting

Preventing CAD

CAD can be prevented or delayed by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as:

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Getting regular exercise
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Quitting smoking
  • Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Online Courses on CAD

Online courses can be a great way to learn more about CAD. These courses can provide a comprehensive overview of the condition, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. They can also be a helpful tool for healthcare professionals who want to stay up-to-date on the latest advances in CAD management.

There are many different online courses on CAD available, so it is important to do some research to find the one that best meets your needs. Some factors to consider include the length of the course, the level of difficulty, and the cost. You should also make sure that the course is accredited by a reputable organization.

Online courses on CAD can be a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this condition. They can provide a comprehensive overview of CAD, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to manage the condition effectively.

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Reading list

We've selected five books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Coronary Artery Disease.
This handbook provides a practical guide to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of coronary artery disease. It is written by notable experts in cardiology and reflects the latest scientific evidence.
Provides a clinical update on coronary artery disease. It covers the latest research and developments in this field. Peter Libby world-renowned expert in cardiology and has made significant contributions to the field.
Focuses on the cardiac catheterization of coronary arteries. It provides a thorough overview of techniques, equipment, and image analyses of coronary catheterization. For individuals interested in this subtopic, this highly relevant resource.
Focuses on coronary artery disease in women, a topic often overlooked despite women being just as likely to suffer from it as men. It provides a comprehensive overview of the topic and is an excellent resource for healthcare professionals who care for women with coronary artery disease.
This clinical guide covers coronary artery disease from its risk factors to some of the latest treatments available. Although this book may not be as in-depth as others on this list, it provides a solid foundation and may be easier to understand for someone with less experience. James B. Young is an internationally recognized expert in the field and has made many significant and innovative contributions to cardiology.
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