Coronary artery disease, also known as coronary heart disease, is the most common form of heart disease in the United States and the number-one killer of men and women in this country.
Coronary artery disease develops when fatty deposits, or plaque, build up in the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This accumulation of plaque thickens and narrows the arteries, decreasing or blocking the flow of blood to the heart.
Coronary artery disease develops over time, so people usually don't experience symptoms until after age 50. Reduced blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain or shortness of breath. A heart attack occurs when blood supply is completely blocked.
Floyd regularly saw his doctor because of a family history of heart trouble. After experiencing consistent heart burn symptoms his doctor recommended he see the specialists at Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute.
Risk factors for coronary artery disease include:
Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest affiliated heart surgeon, Dr. Richard Alexander, discusses the warning signs, symptoms and treatments for coronary artery disease.
If you have questions regarding the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute, our cardiologists, or treatment facilities, please use our contact form below or call (713) 222-2273 for more information.
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