Coronary Occlusions
What is Coronary Occlusion?
Coronary occlusion is a medical term used to describe a blockage in one of the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries are responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood to the heart. When these arteries are blocked, the heart muscle can become deprived of the oxygen it needs to function.
What Causes Coronary Occlusion?
The most common cause of coronary occlusion is atherosclerosis, which is a buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries. Plaque consists of fatty deposits that can form on the inner walls of these arteries, restricting the amount of oxygen-rich blood that reaches the heart. Other causes of coronary occlusion include blood clots, inflammation in the coronary arteries, and cysts in the wall of the coronary artery.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for coronary occlusion include:
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of heart disease
- Advanced age
Symptoms
Common symptoms of coronary occlusion include:
- Chest pain (angina)
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the arms, legs, ankles or feet
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Treatment
Treatment for coronary occlusion usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures. Lifestyle changes may include quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy body weight. Medications can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as reduce inflammation in the arteries and prevent the formation of blood clots. Medical procedures may include angioplasty and stenting, which involve using a balloon to open up the narrowed artery, and bypass surgery, which involves using a graft of healthy artery segments to create a new pathway for blood around a blocked artery.
Prevention
Coronary occlusion can often be prevented or reduced in severity by making lifestyle changes and managing any underlying medical conditions. Eating a healthy, balanced diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing any existing medical conditions can all help to reduce the risk of coronary occlusion.