Coronary occlusion

A coronary occlusion, or coronary artery disease, is the partial or complete obstruction of blood flow in a coronary artery. This condition was first discussed in 1910 by Sir William Osler. This condition slows or blocks the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This condition can lead to myocardial ischemia and if untreated, may cause a heart attack and heart failure. It is the most common form of cardiovascular disease, and is the leading cause of death in the United States, affecting 18 million adults.

A coronary occlusion can be caused by smoking, having other heart or blood conditions, or being physically inactive. It is also hereditary. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in upper body, fatigue, nausea, an irregular heartbeat, and drowsiness.

To diagnose a coronary occlusion, a doctor may view a patient's medical history, or perform a coronary angiography; a doctor will stick a catheter into the wrist or groin, lead it to the heart, and inject a liquid for X-ray imaging.

To treat a coronary occlusion, medication may be used to relieve symptoms. Percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass surgery may also be used.

Symptoms include chest pain or angina, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

A completely blocked coronary artery will cause a heart attack. Common heart attack symptoms include chest pain or angina, pain or discomfort that spreads to the shoulder, arm, back, neck jaw, teeth or the upper belly, cold sweats, fatigue, heartburn, nausea, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness.

Coronary occlusion is caused by the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the walls of the hearts arteries. As plaque builds up, the arteries narrow. Plaque often starts building up during childhood and is heavily influenced by genetics, but also lifestyle and high blood cholesterol. This condition is referred to as atherosclerosis. The buildup on the walls of the hearts arteries is referred to as plaque. Plaque causes arteries to narrow and block blood flow.

Conditions that aid in the development of coronary artery disease are diabetes or insulin resistance, high blood pressure, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking or tobacco use.