Coronary artery disease: assessment and treatment
Problems in the arteries supplying the heart can present in different ways. Understand risk assessment, the purpose of tests and treatment options, distinct from emergency chest pain.
What happens in the heart’s arteries?
Coronary arteries carry oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Plaque in their walls can narrow them and affect blood flow. Some people feel chest pressure or breathlessness with exertion; the absence of symptoms alone does not rule out disease.
Risk and diagnostic assessment
Smoking, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and family history are assessed together. Depending on symptoms, a clinician may choose an ECG, blood tests, stress testing or artery imaging. Not everyone needs every test or immediate invasive angiography; benefits and risks should be discussed with you.
Angiography and opening an artery are different
Angiography images the arteries. Angioplasty and stents are treatments to open suitable narrowed arteries, while bypass surgery creates another route for blood. Medicines and lifestyle changes are also part of care. Findings guide the choice; this article cannot determine whether you need a stent or operation.
Daily care and questions to ask
- Ask about your individual blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar goals and review schedule.
- Discuss smoking cessation, balanced food choices and suitable activity; do not test new chest pain by exercising.
- Do not start or stop blood-thinning or cholesterol medicines yourself. Clarify how long to take medicines prescribed after a stent.
Emergency help for new chest pain
New, worsening or resting chest pressure, pain spreading to an arm or the jaw, breathlessness or cold sweating may signal a heart attack. If suspected, call 112 and do not drive yourself. Having had similar symptoms before does not make a new episode safe.
Information sources
These sources support general information; they do not confirm our hospital’s services or clinical approval.
This information is general and does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your own situation with your healthcare team.
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