coronary artery disease

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), also known as ischemic heart disease, is a condition where the coronary arteries, responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked due to the build-up of cholesterol (plaque) and other substances. This restricts blood flow to the heart, potentially leading to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, or heart failure.

Causes:

Atherosclerosis: Build-up of cholesterol, fats, and other substances in artery walls.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Damages artery walls, leading to plaque formation.
High Cholesterol: Increases the risk of plaque accumulation.
Smoking: Damages the arterial lining and accelerates atherosclerosis.
Diabetes: Promotes inflammation and increases cholesterol levels.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Reduces cardiovascular health.
Obesity: Associated with high blood pressure, diabetes, and inflammation.
Stress: Elevates hormones that can damage arteries over time.

Symptoms (Modern Perspective)

Chest pain or discomfort (angina).
Shortness of breath.
Fatigue during physical activity.
Heart palpitations
Nausea or dizziness.
In severe cases, heart attack with symptoms like intense chest pain, sweating, and breathlessness.

Diagnosis (Modern Methods)

Blood Tests: To measure cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects heart rhythm abnormalities.
Stress Tests: Assess heart function during physical exertion.
Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to visualize heart function.
Angiography: Visualizes blockages in coronary arteries using X-rays.
CT Scan or MRI: Provides detailed imaging of the heart and arteries.

In Ayurveda, CAD is often correlated with Hridroga (heart diseases) or Raktavaha Srotas Dushti (disorders of blood-carrying channels). It is caused by an imbalance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), primarily involving:

Kapha Dushti: Leads to blockage (plaque buildup).
Pitta Imbalance: Causes inflammation in the blood vessels.
Vata Imbalance: Leads to irregular heart function and ischemia.
Aggravation due to Ama (toxic undigested food) and poor dietary/lifestyle habits.

Ayurvedic Management of CAD

Lifestyle Recommendations

Dinacharya (Daily Routine): Include regular physical activity like yoga and pranayama (e.g., Anulom Vilom, Bhastrika).
Stress Management: Practice meditation to balance Vata and Pitta.

Diet (Ahar):

Avoid fried, oily, and processed foods.
Emphasize heart-friendly foods like garlic, turmeric, amla (Indian gooseberry), and ghee in moderation.
Include antioxidants like fresh fruits and vegetables.