Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most common heart conditions in the UK, and understanding it can make a real difference in how it’s managed. We see many patients who are surprised to learn how common CAD is and how manageable it can be with the right care. Thus, we will explain what CAD is, what causes it, the symptoms to look out for, and how it’s diagnosed and treated.

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease occurs when the blood vessels that supply the heart called the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked by a build-up of fatty deposits known as plaques. This process is called atherosclerosis.

Over time, plaque build-up reduces blood flow to the heart muscle, which can lead to symptoms such as chest pain (angina) or, in more serious cases, a heart attack. CAD develops gradually, often over many years, so many people do not realise they have it until they begin to experience symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing coronary artery disease. Some are linked to lifestyle, while others relate to age, genetics, or medical conditions.

The most common risk factors include:

• High cholesterol: Too much “bad” LDL cholesterol in the blood encourages plaque build-up in the arteries.
• High blood pressure: Over time, this puts strain on the artery walls, making them more likely to narrow or become damaged.
• Smoking: Chemicals in tobacco harm the arteries and accelerate plaque formation.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of CAD.
• Lack of physical activity: Regular exercise helps keep the heart and blood vessels healthy.
• Unhealthy diet: Diets high in saturated fat, sugar, and salt can raise cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
• Family history: A history of heart disease in close relatives can increase risk, even in people with a healthy lifestyle.

Many of these risks can be managed or reduced through lifestyle changes, which is why early awareness is so important.

Recognising the Symptoms

Symptoms of CAD can vary, and some people experience no signs until the disease becomes advanced. However, the most common symptom is angina chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.

Typical symptoms include:

• A pressure or tightness in the chest, especially during exercise or stress
• Pain that may spread to the neck, jaw, shoulders, or arms
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue or dizziness
• Nausea or sweating

In some cases, particularly in women or people with diabetes, symptoms can be more subtle such as breathlessness or tiredness without obvious chest pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak to your GP or a cardiologist promptly.

For urgent or severe chest pain, always call 999.

How CAD Is Diagnosed

When patients visit our clinic with symptoms that suggest coronary artery disease, we begin with a detailed discussion of their medical history and risk factors. Diagnostic testing helps us confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the condition.

Common tests include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the heart’s electrical activity to detect irregular rhythms or evidence of previous heart damage.
• Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to assess the heart’s structure and function.
• CT Coronary Angiogram: Provides detailed images of the coronary arteries and identifies any narrowing or blockages.
• Exercise Stress Test: Evaluates how the heart performs under physical exertion.

These tests allow us to identify problems early, often before a major cardiac event occurs. For a clear explanation of each test, the British Heart Foundation also provides helpful guidance.

Treatment Options for Coronary Artery Disease

Treatment for CAD focuses on improving blood flow, reducing symptoms, and preventing further damage to the heart. Depending on the results of your assessment, treatment may involve:

1. Lifestyle Changes

Healthy habits form the foundation of CAD management. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, stopping smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. Even small changes can significantly improve heart health.

2. Medication

Several types of medication can help manage CAD, including:

• Statins to lower cholesterol levels
• Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to reduce blood pressure and heart strain
• Antiplatelet drugs like aspirin to prevent blood clots
• Nitrates to relieve angina symptoms

Your cardiologist will tailor medication based on your test results and medical history.

3. Interventional Procedures

If significant narrowing is found in the arteries, procedures may be needed to restore blood flow. These include:

• Angioplasty and stent placement: A small balloon is inflated inside the artery to widen it, and a stent (small mesh tube) is inserted to keep it open.
• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG): In more complex cases, surgeons may create a new route for blood to reach the heart using a graft from another blood vessel.

Not everyone with CAD will need these procedures, but they can be life-saving in certain cases.

Living with Coronary Artery Disease

Receiving a CAD diagnosis can feel worrying, but many people live full, active lives with proper treatment and ongoing care. Managing lifestyle choices, taking prescribed medication, and attending regular check-ups are key parts of keeping the condition under control.

At our clinic, we often remind patients that prevention and consistency are vital. Keeping cholesterol and blood pressure within healthy limits and attending annual reviews can reduce the likelihood of further complications.

The NHS Heart Health Guide offers practical advice on living with and managing CAD day to day.

Preventing CAD

While some risk factors like family history and age cannot be changed, many others can be managed. To help prevent CAD:

• Follow a heart-healthy diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise for at least 150 minutes per week
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar regularly
• Manage stress through relaxation or mindfulness techniques

Preventive steps are especially important for those with a family history of heart disease or other risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

Conclusion

Coronary artery disease remains one of the most common yet preventable heart conditions. Understanding your risk, recognising the symptoms, and seeking early assessment can make a significant difference in long-term heart health.

At West Kent Cardiology Partnership, we help patients across Kent and East Sussex diagnose, treat, and manage CAD with modern technology and compassionate, patient-focused care. If you’re concerned about symptoms like chest discomfort, breathlessness, or unexplained fatigue, you can contact us here to book a consultation and receive a thorough cardiac assessment.

For more information about CAD, visit the British Heart Foundation or the NHS website.