Coronary artery disease

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Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (pronounced: kuh-ROH-nuh-ree AR-tuh-ree dih-ZEEZ), also known as CAD, is a common type of heart disease. It is the leading cause of death in the United States in both men and women.

Etymology

The term "coronary" comes from the Latin corona, meaning crown, and refers to the crown-like appearance of the arteries surrounding the heart. The term "artery" is derived from the Greek arteria, meaning windpipe, as the arteries were thought to carry air. "Disease" comes from the Old French desaise, meaning lack of ease.

Definition

Coronary artery disease develops when the major blood vessels that supply your heart with blood, oxygen and nutrients (coronary arteries) become damaged or diseased. Cholesterol-containing deposits (plaque) in your arteries and inflammation are usually to blame for coronary artery disease.

Symptoms

Symptoms of coronary artery disease may include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, heart attack, and other signs and symptoms.

Causes

Coronary artery disease is thought to begin with damage or injury to the inner layer of a coronary artery, sometimes as early as childhood. The damage may be caused by various factors, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or insulin resistance, sedentary lifestyle, and family history of heart disease.

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