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Coronary Artery Disease Specialist

Good Heart Medical Group, Inc.

Board Certified Cardiologist & Interventional Cardiology located in Santa Ana, CA & Garden Grove, CA

Coronary artery disease is a widespread condition and one of the leading causes of death in the United States. If you’re at risk or experience symptoms of coronary heart disease, book an appointment with the specialists at Good Heart Medical Group, Inc. Led by Amer Zarka, MD, the practice offers advanced diagnostics and can determine the best ways to improve your heart health. To learn more, call one of the offices in Santa Ana or Garden Grove, California, or schedule an appointment online today.

Coronary Artery Disease Q & A

What is coronary artery disease?

Your coronary arteries deliver oxygen, nutrients, and blood to your heart. Coronary artery disease occurs when you experience damage or a problem that narrows these arteries and restricts blood flow to your heart. 

Coronary artery disease typically develops over time. Many don’t experience symptoms until their arteries are significantly blocked. Symptoms of coronary artery disease include chest pain and shortness of breath. 

Without treatment, coronary artery disease can result in a completely blocked coronary artery, leading to a heart attack. 

Who gets coronary artery disease?

Coronary artery disease occurs when you have damage to your arteries. Your coronary arteries can experience damage from several underlying issues, such as:

  • Smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Diabetes
  • Lack of physical activity

Once your coronary arteries are damaged, cholesterol-containing deposits (plaque) tend to build up in your artery walls. Over time, this plaque narrows your arteries and restricts blood flow. 

Factors like age, obesity, and high levels of stress can increase your risks of developing coronary artery disease. Men are at a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease, but the risk increases for women after menopause. 

How is coronary artery disease diagnosed?

If you exhibit any symptoms or risk factors of coronary artery disease, the specialists at Good Heart Medical Group, Inc., can determine the best ways to improve your heart health. 

Before recommending treatment, your cardiologist performs a thorough assessment, including a physical exam and blood tests. Your doctor may conduct additional tests like:

  • Electrocardiogram
  • Echocardiogram
  • Stress test

After your diagnosis, you and your doctor work together to determine the right treatment for your condition. 

What treatments are available?

Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise and adopting a heart-healthy diet can go a long way in preventing and treating coronary artery disease. 

Your doctor may also recommend medications to address issues like high blood pressure or high cholesterol and decrease your risk of complications like blood clots or heart attacks. 

In some cases, you may need surgery to unblock or bypass a clogged artery. To speak with a cardiologist about your heart health, call Good Heart Medical Group, Inc., or book an appointment online today.