What is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?
Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the heart’s blood vessels (coronary arteries) become clogged from a buildup of cells, fats and cholesterol.
Whyis CAD dangerous?
When the heart’s blood vessels (coronary arteries) are clogged:
- The heart does not get enough blood supply
- You can have chest pain (angina) or even a heart attack
- A heart attack can cause permanent damage to a part of the heart or death
What can I do about CAD?
- Stop smoking. Call the Colorado QuitLine (1-800-784-8669) for help to stop smoking.
- Eat healthy foods. Avoid foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat, like lard, wholemilk, margarine, butter and meat.
- Exercise regularly (talk to your health care provider before you start and start slowly)
- If you are too heavy, call (303) 436-4537 for information about nutrition classes
- If you have diabetes, control your blood glucose levels
- Take your medicines as written on the bottle
- Check with your care provider before you stop taking any medicine
- Keep your appointments with your care provider
- Keep your appointments for tests ordered by your care provider
What are serious symptoms of CAD (Get Medical Help):
- Pressure, pain, fullness or a squeezing feeling in your chest
- Pain in your shoulders, neck or arms
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea
- Feeling your heartbeat racing
- Having a cold sweat for no reason
Call 911 if you have any of these serious symptoms