Understanding the Most Common Form of Heart Disease — and How to Protect Your Heart Health

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in the United States, and one of the leading causes of serious cardiac events such as heart attacks. The good news is that, for many people, CAD is preventable, manageable, and treatable, especially when detected early.

This guide explains what coronary artery disease is, why it develops, what symptoms to watch for, and how you can take steps to protect your heart.

What Is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. This happens due to plaque buildup, made of cholesterol, fats, and other substances in the bloodstream.

Over time, artery walls become stiff and narrowed — a process called atherosclerosis — which limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.

When the heart isn’t getting enough blood, it has to work harder. Eventually, this can lead to chest pain, heart damage, or heart attack.

How Common Is Coronary Artery Disease?

CAD affects millions of adults, and risk increases with age. But it’s not just a condition that happens later in life — plaque buildup can begin quietly over many years.

Because CAD often develops without noticeable symptoms, many people don’t know they have it until a cardiac event occurs.
This is why early detection is critical.

What Causes Coronary Artery Disease?

Several factors contribute to plaque buildup and artery damage, including:

• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Diabetes or prediabetes
• Family history of heart disease
• Obesity
• Chronic stress
• Sedentary lifestyle

Some risk factors — such as age and genetics — can’t be changed. But many can be improved with lifestyle changes and heart-healthy habits.

Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Coronary artery disease doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Chest pressure or pain (angina)
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue during routine activity
• Pain in the shoulders, neck, back, or jaw
• Feeling unusually winded or weak

If you experience severe chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, or nausea, call 911 immediately. These may be signs of a heart attack.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Coronary Artery Disease

Small daily choices can make a significant impact on heart health.

Lifestyle Strategies to Support a Healthy Heart:

• Move your body — aim for at least 150 minutes of activity per week
• Choose heart-healthy foods — such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, fish, and olive oil
• Limit salt, sugar, and saturated fats
• Quit smoking (we can help)
• Manage blood pressure and blood sugar
• Find stress-relief routines — such as breathing exercises, walking, or journaling
• Maintain a healthy weight

Even small steps add up — starting somewhere is better than waiting for the “perfect” plan.

Early Detection: Why Heart Scans Matter

Because coronary artery disease often develops without symptoms, screening can help detect plaque buildup before it becomes dangerous.

A heart scan (coronary calcium score) is a quick, non-invasive test that measures calcium in the coronary arteries — an early indicator of CAD.

A heart scan may be right for you if you:

• Are age 40+
• Have a family history of heart disease
• Have high cholesterol or high blood pressure
• Have diabetes or prediabetes
• Are a smoker or former smoker

Early detection offers peace of mind — and, if needed, a plan to protect your heart health.

When to See a Cardiologist

You should schedule a cardiology evaluation if you:

• Have risk factors for heart disease
• Have symptoms such as chest discomfort or shortness of breath
• Have a family history of cardiac events
• Want to understand your heart health more clearly

Norman Regional’s cardiology team provides individualized care, advanced diagnostics, and treatment options — close to home.

Protect Your Heart Health — We’re Here to Help

If you're concerned about your heart health, have risk factors, or want to take a proactive step:

Call 405-515-2222 to schedule a consultation.
or
Look into scheduling a Heart Scan today.

Taking action now could protect your heart for years to come.