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Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary Artery Disease services offered in Miami Beach, Aventura and Miami, FL

Shortness of breath and chest pain could indicate you have coronary artery disease (CAD). At Nader Cardiology in Miami Beach, Florida, board-certified cardiologists Ralph Nader, MD, Adam Nader, MD, and their exceptional staff diagnose and treat CAD to reduce your risk of serious medical complications. Call the office to learn more or use the online scheduler today.

Coronary Artery Disease Q&A

What is coronary artery disease?

Coronary artery disease, commonly called CAD, develops when blood vessels get damaged. High cholesterol, inflammation, and plaque buildup are common risk factors for CAD, increasing your risk of a heart attack.

What are the symptoms of coronary artery disease?

You might not have any symptoms, at least initially, because of coronary artery disease. However, CAD can eventually cause chest pain, shortness of breath, heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, or a heart attack. Any time you experience new or worsening symptoms of CAD or heart problems, see the Nader Cardiology specialists for an evaluation. 

What are the risk factors for coronary artery disease?

Common CAD risk factors include:

  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • Smoking 
  • Diabetes
  • Lack of exercise
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Older age
  • Smoking
  • Excess body weight
  • Ongoing stress
  • Poor dietary habits

The best way to reduce your chance of developing coronary artery disease is to eat nutritious foods, get regular exercise, keep stress levels low, and maintain an ideal weight. Avoid smoking and properly manage high cholesterol or high blood pressure if you have these conditions.

How does my doctor diagnose coronary artery disease?

The providers at Nader Cardiology diagnose coronary artery disease using various methods. They review your symptoms and medical history, check your blood pressure and other vital signs, and complete a physical exam. 

Your specialist may order blood tests and heart-function tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram, stress test, nuclear stress test, CT scan, or cardiac catheterization.

What do CAD treatments include?

Standard CAD treatments often include:

Lifestyle changes

Avoid smoking, eat a well-balanced diet rich in high-fiber foods, get regular exercise, reduce stress, and lose any excess body weight.

Medications

Taking medications can help you manage CAD and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.

Medical procedures

Minor procedures your heart specialist offers to widen or reroute blood from diseased vessels include angioplasty with stent placement and coronary artery bypass surgery.

To get screed or treated for coronary artery disease, call the Nader Cardiology office or use the online scheduler today.