What is the most common type of heart disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease, which affects millions of people worldwide. Also known as ischemic heart disease, CAD occurs when the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood become narrow and hardened due to a buildup of plaque.

The risk factors for CAD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, family history of heart disease, and age. Some of the common symptoms of CAD include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and fatigue.

The treatment for CAD depends on the severity and extent of the disease. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, following a healthy diet, and regular exercise may be sufficient to manage the symptoms and prevent the progression of the disease. Medicines such as aspirin, beta-blockers, or nitrates may also be prescribed by a doctor. In more severe cases, surgical procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery may be required to restore blood flow to the heart.