Heart of the Matter: Managing Coronary Artery Disease Effectively 

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a complex condition where the arteries supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. CAD can develop silently over time, but when left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including heart attacks. However, early detection and targeted intervention can prevent life-threatening outcomes and significantly improve quality of life. 
 
 

Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease 

The symptoms of CAD vary, but chest pain or discomfort (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, and even heart attacks are common indicators. Other subtle signs may include nausea, dizziness, or pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back—often occurring during physical activity or stress. Recognizing these symptoms early is key to preventing severe complications. 

 

Risk Factors: What Increases Your Risk? 

High cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle are well-known risk factors. Family history, age, and gender can also increase the risk—men face greater risk earlier in life, while postmenopausal women become equally vulnerable. Proactively managing these risks through healthy habits and medical advice can reduce the likelihood of CAD development.
 
 

Prevention: Take Charge of Your Heart Health 

Preventing CAD requires a commitment to lifestyle changes, including a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking. Managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes through medication is equally important. Routine health screenings can detect potential risks early, helping individuals avoid complications before they arise. 
 
 

Treatment Options: The Role of Early Intervention 

When CAD is detected, timely intervention can make all the difference. Treatments range from medications to relieve symptoms and control risk factors to more advanced procedures such as angioplasty with stent placement and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure where a small balloon is used to open blocked arteries, often followed by stent placement to keep the artery open. CABG, on the other hand, reroutes blood flow around blocked arteries using healthy vessels from other parts of the body. 

At the Bumrungrad Heart Institute, we specialize in advanced treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. Our expert team offers a comprehensive suite of services—from non-invasive diagnostics to complex interventional procedures—all performed with cutting-edge technology. Whether you require medication management or life-saving surgery, we deliver personalized care focused on long-term success and improved quality of life.

Choosing the right healthcare provider is critical for effectively managing CAD. At the Bumrungrad Heart Institute, our experienced specialists leverage state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and advanced interventional techniques to ensure precise, effective treatment. From minimally invasive procedures to complex cardiac surgeries, we are committed to delivering better outcomes and helping you return to a healthier, more active life.
Take control of your heart health today—schedule your consultation and experience the difference expert care makes.

 
Provided by Dr. Wattanaphol Phipathananunth