Coronary Artery Disease

What Is Coronary Artery Disease? 

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common type of heart disease. CAD happens when the blood vessels (arteries) carrying oxygen to the heart become narrowed or blocked (atherosclerosis).

CAD prevents blood from reaching the heart muscle. CAD can lead to a heart attack and even heart failure.

Coronary Artery Disease Symptoms

Some common CAD symptoms include:

  • Chest pain (angina)
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Shortness of breath
Emory Heart & Vascular experts offer a range of treatments for coronary artery disease, including coronary artery bypass surgery.

Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease 

To diagnose CAD, your doctor will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam. Your doctor may also order other diagnostic tests, including:

  • Cardiac catheterization (angiography)
  • Echocardiogram
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
  • Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
  • Stress test 

What To Expect During a PET Scan 

A PET scan is one of the most common tests doctors use to diagnose CAD. PET scans produce detailed images of your heart's blood flow and function.

During a PET scan, a technician injects a small amount of radioactive tracer into your bloodstream. This tracer highlights blockages or abnormalities in the coronary arteries.

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