Mercy Heart & Vascular Services

Conditions - Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary Artery Disease(CAD)/Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)

Coronary artery disease (CAD), also called coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common form of heart disease in adults. It is caused by the build-up of plaque, a fatty material, within the inner walls of your coronary arteries. The plaque accumulation means that less blood can flow through the arteries, making it difficult for your body to carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart. The most common symptoms are chest pain. If the plaque ruptures it creates a blood clot that could block an artery and cause a heart attack. Left untreated, CAD/CHD can cause the heart muscle to weaken, leading to irregular heart beat patterns (arrhythmia) and heart failure.