Know How to Treat Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery diseases (CAD) or blockage of arteries due to deposition of cholesterol is one of the most common problem of heart, which impacts its functioning. In case your doctor finds something alarming in your reports, he might suggest coronary angiography and angioplasty. One is a diagnostic procedure and the other one is carried out to treat the blockage

 What is coronary angiography?

Coronary angiography is a test, that is carried out to check the level of blockage in the arteries. In this process, a thin tube is put inside your arteries, it can be inserted from the elbow, waist or groin. After the insertion of tube, a special dye is used to get a clear picture of the level of blockage.

 What is coronary angioplasty?

Coronary angioplasty is carried out to remove the blockage of the arteries. Thus, resulting in a better blood flow. It also lowers the chances of angina and its symptoms.

Types of coronary angioplasty

Coronary angioplasty is usually of two types and is named after the type of procedure being carried out.

• Balloon angioplasty:  In this procedure, a special balloon-tipped tube is inserted into the artery. When the tube reaches the point where there is deposition of cholesterol, the balloon is inflated, which causes pressure on the cholesterol, resulting in compression of cholesterol.
• Stenting: Stents are a small, flexible tube, made up of mesh wires, that are placed permanently on the site of blockage. Stenting avoids the deposition of cholesterol again, this is also called restenosis. In most cases, stenting is required even after a balloon angioplasty.

Coronary angioplasty, reduces the risk of heart complications. Following a healthy lifestyle and good eating habits along with medications as prescribed by your doctor is very important.