Promoting Lifestyle of Clients with Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, usually caused by atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of cholesterol and fatty deposits (called plaques) on the inner walls of the arteries. These plaques can restrict blood flow to the heart muscle by physically clogging the artery or by causing abnormal artery tone and function(Hanson 2013). CAD starts when certain factors damage the inner layers of the coronary arteries. These factors include smoking, high amounts of certain fats and cholesterol in the blood, high blood pressure, and high amounts of sugar in the blood due to insulin resistance or diabetes (Leosdottir et al, 2009). The most common symptom of coronary artery disease is angina, or chest pain. Angina can be described as a heaviness, pressure, aching, burning, numbness, fullness, squeezing or painful feeling. It can be mistaken for indigestion or heartburn. Angina is usually felt in the chest, but may also be felt in the left shoulder, arms, neck, back, or jaw(Gulati et al, 2009). Lifestyle changes may be the only treatment needed for CAD. Lifestyle changes include following a heart healthy diet, doing regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and reducing stress. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medicines can help to control risk factors and relieve symptoms. CAD also needs a medical procedure to treat the disease. Angioplasty and coronary artery bypass grafting are two surgical procedures used to treat CAD(Mente et al, 2010).