Coronary Artery Disease—At a Glance

What is coronary artery disease?

Coronary artery disease is when one or more of the coronary arteries becomes narrowed or totally blocked by a gradual build-up of fat (cholesterol) within the artery wall, which reduces blood flow to the heart muscle. As a result, the heart muscle does not get the oxygen-rich blood that it needs, and it begins to die. Learn more.

What are the common symptoms of coronary artery disease?

You may not notice any symptoms at rest, but experience chest pressure with increased activity or stress. Other symptoms include heartburn, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and heavy sweating. Learn more.

What are the causes and risk factors of coronary artery disease?

Some risk factors of coronary artery disease include having a family history of heart disease, smoking, and high blood pressure. Learn more.

How is coronary artery disease diagnosed?

Your doctor may use several tests to determine if you have coronary artery disease, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) while you are resting and again while you are walking or running on a treadmill or pedaling a stationary bicycle. Learn more.

Ask your doctor

Learn what questions to ask your doctor to prepare for your next visit. Learn more.

How is coronary artery disease treated?

Coronary artery disease may be treated with medication, surgery, minimally invasive interventional procedures, or a combination of these therapies. Learn more.