Final answer:
Coronary artery disease is a heart condition caused by atherosclerosis leading to blocked and narrowed arteries. It can result in angina or myocardial infarction. Treatments include lifestyle changes, medication, angioplasty, and coronary bypass surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The condition where the arteries become blocked and narrow, preventing sufficient blood from reaching the heart, is called Coronary artery disease (CAD). This is due to a process known as atherosclerosis, where plaque buildup within the artery walls causes obstruction of blood flow and reduces elasticity of the vessels. Figure 19.16 illustrates a coronary angiogram with two occluded coronary arteries, leading to ischemia (decreased blood flow) and hypoxia (insufficient oxygen). Without treatment, CAD can result in myocardial infarction (heart attack).Individuals with CAD may experience symptoms such as angina pectoris, though some may be asymptomatic. Treatment options focus on lifestyle changes and medical interventions, including angioplasty and coronary bypass surgery. In an angioplasty, a catheter with a balloon is inserted to widen the artery, often followed by the placement of a stent. In coronary bypass surgery, an alternate pathway is created around the blockage using a vessel from another part of the body or a synthetic one. Lifestyle changes such as diet modification, exercise, smoking cessation, and medications to manage cholesterol and blood pressure are also crucial.