Ischemic Heart Disease

What is Ischemic Heart Disease?

Ischemic heart disease or coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease, affecting roughly 13 million Americans. The disease is caused by a buildup of plaques in the blood vessels that connect to your heart and occurs gradually. As time progresses, blood flow to the heart is severely diminished. A sudden blockage is very likely and can lead to a heart attack.

What are the symptoms of Ischemic Heart Disease?

The problem with this disease is that there may not be any symptoms that are present. This is referred to as silent ischemia. Other symptoms of ischemic heart disease are chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart attack.

What Causes Ischemic Heart Disease?

Ischemic heart disease is caused by a gradual buildup of plaques in the blood vessels that sends a blood supply to the heart. This leads to the diminished flow of blood to the heart muscle. This can have very serious risks such as a heart attack.

What Increases My Risk of Developing Ischemic Heart Disease?

You can increase your risk of developing ischemic heart disease by:

• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Obesity and inactivity

How is Ischemic Heart Disease Diagnosed?

Tests that can help diagnose ischemic heart disease or rule out other possible conditions include: electrocardiogram (ECG); echocardiogram; stress test; coronary angiography (or arteriography); coronary magnetic resonance angiography; nuclear scan; and electron beam computerized tomography.