Detecting Coronary Artery Disease Early: Warning Signs and Diagnostics

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes, and yet many people are unaware they have it until it’s too late. If you have concerns about your heart health, it is important to be vigilant and take a proactive approach to reduce the risk of serious issues down the road. In this blog, we will highlight the signs of coronary artery disease, why early detection is crucial, and the diagnostic options available to manage your heart health.

Signs of Coronary Artery Disease

CAD is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to your heart become narrowed or blocked due to a build-up of plaque. This leads to a variety of symptoms, including:

• Chest pain (angina): This is one of the most common symptoms of CAD. This pain may feel like a pressure or tightness in the chest, often triggered by physical activity or emotional stress.
• Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath, both during physical activity or at rest, could indicate that your heart is not receiving enough oxygen due to narrowed or blocked arteries. 
• Fatigue: When the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, it can lead to a feeling of exhaustion or tiredness even after normal activities.

Available Tests and Screening for Coronary Artery Disease

After your doctor has identified the symptoms, they may employ further diagnostic tests. These can provide valuable insights into your heart health and guide future steps taken for treatment or prevention. 

• Non-Invasive Tests

Non-invasive tests are often the first step in diagnosing CAD, offering valuable insights without the need for surgery or significant discomfort. For instance, your doctor may call for a CT coronary angiogram to assess the presence of blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities. Alternatively, a functional stress echocardiogram, which involves an ultrasound of the heart while it’s under physical stress can detect serious coronary artery blockages. 

• Invasive Procedures

If the results from these tests raise concerns, more in-depth testing might be recommended. For example, coronary angiography is often used to get a detailed view of the arteries. This procedure involves threading a thin catheter through an artery to the coronary vessels, where a special dye is injected. The dye makes the arteries visible on X-ray images, allowing your healthcare provider to identify the exact location and extent of blockages or narrowing. 

Once the blockages are identified and can be treated with stents, a coronary angioplasty procedure can be performed at the same time.

Why is Early Detection Important?

The signs of early-stage coronary artery disease are often not noticeable, which is why it is sometimes referred to as a “silent” condition. Many people with CAD may not realise they have it until more serious health issues arise, such as a heart attack or stroke. This is especially crucial if you have risk factors for CAD, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.

Early detection of coronary artery disease allows doctors to intervene before these complications occur. For example, lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking may help slow the progression of the disease. Medications may also be recommended to manage blood pressure, cholesterol levels, or blood sugar. This allows you to start addressing the condition, preventing heart attacks and improving long-term health outcomes.

Take the First Step in Protecting Your Heart Health

If you suspect that your heart health may be at risk, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Dr. Leslie Tay, a consultant interventional cardiologist in Singapore, offers assessments and guidance for managing complex coronary artery disease. With years of clinical experience in the field, Dr. Tay is here to help you understand your heart health and explore ways to reduce your risk.

Contact us today to book an initial consultation.