Understanding Coronary Artery Disease

At CardioVascular Health Clinic, your heart is our top priority.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with coronary artery disease or are at risk of developing the disease, it is essential to get evaluated and understand your options for coronary artery treatment if you’re diagnosed.

Coronary artery disease often exhibits few symptoms until it threatens your health and life. So don’t delay a thorough examination– get the care you need now.

Let’s discuss coronary artery disease in more detail, including what it is, common coronary artery symptoms, and effective treatment options and lifestyle changes.

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease is a common cardiovascular health condition affecting thousands yearly.

The coronary arteries are the heart’s primary blood vessels. Coronary artery disease occurs when those arteries become damaged or diseased.

Causes and Risk Factors

The leading cause of coronary artery disease is plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. Plaque is composed of fatty and cholesterol deposits.

Long-term plaque accumulation can narrow the arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart.

The decreased blood flow can lead to other cardiovascular problems, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart attack.

Coronary artery disease is often caused by atherosclerosis– the hardening and clogging of arteries because of plaque buildup and damage to a coronary artery’s inner layer.

Several factors can increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease, including

A sedentary lifestyle and physical inactivity
Diabetes or insulin resistance
High cholesterol
Smoking
High blood pressure
Age, gender, and family history of heart disease
Unhealthy diet
Overweight or obesity
High stress

More than one risk factor, or specific combinations, can increase your chances of developing coronary artery disease.

Coronary Artery Disease Symptoms

Coronary artery disease develops gradually over many years, and symptoms may not appear until there is a severe blockage or a heart attack.

Symptoms of coronary artery disease may include:

Abnormal chest pain (angina)
Shortness of breath
Heart attack

Early detection can help get you the coronary artery treatment you need to prevent long-term cardiovascular complications.

Coronary Artery Disease Treatment

If left untreated, coronary artery disease can lead to other cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure or arrhythmias.

During your initial visit, one of our physicians will conduct a few diagnostic tests to determine if you suffer from coronary artery disease, including a heart scan, stress test, and an electro- or echocardiogram.

Because of its chronic nature, treatment for coronary artery disease often requires lifestyle changes, including

Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet
Participating in regular moderate exercise
Quitting smoking
Weight loss to maintain a healthy weight
Stress reduction

Treatment plans may also include a combination of medications to improve blood flow and reduce cholesterol. More severe cases may require advanced procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery.

The team of cardiology and vascular specialists at CardioVascular Health Clinic offers decades of combined experience in treating coronary artery disease. Their integrated approach to patient health ensures Oklahomans receive the best care possible to prevent, diagnose, and treat cardiovascular conditions.

Coronary artery disease can be a silent killer. If you are concerned about your risk for developing coronary artery disease, call CardioVascular Health Clinic today at (405) 701-9880 or visit our website to make an appointment.

Testimonials

I’m about one month out and things are so much better. At my two week evaluation my symptom score had gone from a 27 to a 7, and I’m sure it’s even better now. That speaks volumes. Now that I’m post recovery, there is no incontinence, I go to the bathroom much less and there are no ED side effects like there are with other procedures. In regard to my quality of life, well, I don’t maintain my life based on my proximity to a bathroom anymore.

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Blaine P., M.D.

Professional staff working in a beautiful facility with great doctors who sincerely care about their patients. Without Dr. Schmidt's skill, I would have needed heart bypass surgery instead of a stent. Follow-up has been thorough. I can't recommend them highly enough.

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LeAnn H.

Dr. Jim Melton and all the staff are fantastic. He is an excellent surgeon and his team is GREAT!!!! I just had surgery at the surgery center, I have only great things to say about my experience. Without him I really don't think I would be here to write this. If you’re looking for a good cardiovascular team, they are a 5 star for sure.

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Susie H.

Dr. Parsons and staff are amazing. He truly listened to me from the consult. Staff showed genuine care for my progress post procedure. I had my follow up appointment today so satisfied with results. Blake made me comfortable from the start. He is an activist for uterine fibroids treatment beyond the standard.

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Tamara M.

Professional and caring staff. Dr. Smith is very knowledgeable and shows genuine concern for your personal health. I enjoyed the background music in the procedure room, it really adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

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David L.

Dr. John Schrader is the most personable doctor we know. He stays on top of my dads health care and is genuinely concerned about his health. We never leave his office with questions. He answers them all. Even questions we don’t think of. Always professional but never cold or bad bedside manner. In our opinion he is THE BEST around.
Thank you Dr Schrader.

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Kathy J.

I came to Dr. Warren by a self referral for mals when it took me 8yrs 50+ doctors and thousands of dollars spent on no answers. My first visit I was scared I was just going to be gaslighted just like the past however I was pleasantly shocked when Dr. Warren immediately believed me. She took the time to review many disk I had brought from past tests. She never once dismissed me and listened to ever word I had to say. She scheduled one last test to confirm the diagnosis then I was scheduled for surgery right away. Surgery was a success and I can’t thank her and her staff enough. Dr. Warren truly saved my life.

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Angie W.

Dr. Garner literally saved my life 18 months ago and I've followed him to his new practice with Cardiovascular Health. He explains things so clearly, listens and is just a very nice person. His staff is great, too! I highly recommend!

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D Watts

Some of the nicest staff that I have ever dealt with!! They have been so incredibly awesome to my mom!! Would definitely recommend them to anyone!! Thank you so much for being so great with her!!

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Christy G.

The staff, the nurses, and Dr. Parsons were all amazing. Everything was simple and went well – very Bravo Zulu (military phrase meaning "well done"). In addition to the great staff at CardioVascular Health Clinic, the facilities were clean and well maintained. I have no complaints about anything. The whole experience was A1. I would recommend Dr. Parsons to anyone. He made a huge impact on my life.

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John W.