Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most common types of heart disease with about one in two men and one in three women over 40 years of age being diagnosed with the condition.

What is coronary artery disease?

CAD is caused by plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, which leads to narrowing over time. This can decrease the heart’s blood supply. This condition becomes more common as people age and plaque continues to build. Although CAD doesn’t usually produce symptoms in its mild stages, you can experience chest pain, generalized fatigue and shortness of breath once it reaches a more severe state.

If you start to experience any of these symptoms, seek medical care with your primary care physician or cardiologist to assess your condition.

Although some severe cases do require surgery, medication is also available to slow the disease progression and treat symptoms.

Who is at risk of developing CAD?

Some risk factors of CAD include being overweight, physical inactivity, unhealthy eating and smoking. Your risk of developing CAD also increases with a family history of heart disease, especially if the history includes someone diagnosed with heart disease at a young age.

How can I prevent CAD?

A healthy lifestyle is key to preventing CAD. Some prevention measures include eating a healthier diet and increasing physical activity. If you are predisposed to CAD, medication is sometimes used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle to prevent CAD.

To learn more about coronary artery disease, join Dr. Meyer for a community lecture on Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 6 p.m. at Sierra Medical Center, located at 6500 Longley Lane. Click here to register. Dinner included.