Spotlight Video | Understanding Coronary Artery Disease | Mell Burress Welborn Jr., MD, FACS

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Dr. Mell Burress Welborn Thoracic Surgeon Evansville, IN

Dr. Mell B. Welborn Jr., MD, FACS, is a highly skilled vascular surgeon dedicated to providing exceptional care to patients in Evansville, Indiana. As a fellowship-trained specialist, he practices at Deaconess Wound Services, located within Deaconess Midtown Hospital, part of the esteemed Deaconess Health System. Driven... more

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease

CAD occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked by a buildup of cholesterol, fat, and other substances, collectively known as plaque. This buildup restricts blood flow to the heart, depriving it of the oxygen it needs to function optimally.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors contribute to the development of CAD, including:

  1. Age: The risk of CAD increases with age.
  2. Family History: If close relatives have or had CAD, your risk is higher.
  3. Smoking: Tobacco use is a major risk factor.
  4. High Blood Pressure: Hypertension strains the heart and arteries.
  5. High Cholesterol: Elevated levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup.
  6. Diabetes: High blood sugar damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of CAD.
  7. Obesity: Excess weight strains the heart.

Symptoms

The symptoms of CAD can vary. Some individuals may experience angina, a chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen. Others may not show symptoms until a heart attack strikes, causing severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and even loss of consciousness. Recognizing the warning signs is critical for prompt medical attention.

Prevention and Management

Preventing CAD is possible with a few essential lifestyle changes:

  1. Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help control cholesterol and blood pressure.

  2. Regular Exercise: Staying physically active improves cardiovascular health.

  3. No Smoking: Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce CAD risk.

  4. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight lowers the strain on your heart.

  5. Control Chronic Conditions: Managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes is crucial.

For individuals with CAD, proper medical management is vital. Medications, such as statins to control cholesterol and aspirin to prevent blood clots, are often prescribed. In some cases, surgical interventions like angioplasty and stent placement or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) might be necessary.

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