Heart blockage can raise questions about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options and whether a procedure is required. Here are answers to some common questions about coronary artery blockage and heart care.
Heart blockage usually refers to narrowing or blockage in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. It commonly develops because of plaque buildup, which can reduce blood flow to the heart.
Symptoms may include chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, dizziness or discomfort that spreads to the arm, shoulder, back, neck or jaw. Some people may have coronary artery disease without noticeable symptoms.
Your cardiologist may recommend tests based on your symptoms and risk factors. These can include an ECG, blood tests, TMT, echocardiography, CT coronary imaging or coronary angiography when clinically appropriate.
An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and can provide important information about heart function. However, an ECG alone cannot reliably show the location or severity of a coronary artery blockage. Your cardiologist may recommend additional tests when needed.
No. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the blockage, symptoms, test findings and overall cardiovascular risk. Some patients may be managed with medicines and lifestyle changes, while others may require angioplasty and stenting or bypass surgery.
Coronary angiography is a diagnostic procedure used to visualise the coronary arteries and identify narrowing or blockages. Angioplasty is a treatment procedure used in selected patients to improve blood flow through a significantly narrowed or blocked artery.
Depending on the condition, treatment may include medicines, cholesterol and blood-pressure management, lifestyle changes and other risk-factor control. Some patients with significant blockages may need a procedure such as angioplasty or bypass surgery.
The risk depends on the severity and location of the disease. Significant coronary artery disease can reduce blood flow to the heart and may contribute to angina, heart attack or other complications. Appropriate evaluation helps determine the right management.
Risk can increase with factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, increasing age and a family history of cardiovascular disease.
If you have recurring chest discomfort, breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance or other symptoms that may be heart-related, a cardiology evaluation can help identify the cause. Severe or sudden chest pain, significant breathing difficulty or symptoms suggesting a heart attack require immediate emergency medical attention.
Yes. Patients in Gurgaon can undergo cardiology evaluation for suspected coronary artery disease and discuss appropriate treatment options with a cardiac specialist. Depending on the findings, management may include medical treatment, coronary angiography, angioplasty or other cardiac interventions.
You can contact Atrius Cardiac Care to schedule a consultation with a cardiologist. Bring your previous ECG, TMT, echocardiography, blood-test reports and current medication details if available.