Treatment Options and Medications for Coronary Heart Disease

Medication Therapy

Pharmacological treatment plays a crucial role in managing coronary heart disease. Patients are often prescribed a combination of medications to address various aspects of the condition. Anti-thrombotic drugs help prevent blood clots, while lipid-lowering medications such as statins reduce cholesterol levels and slow the progression of arterial plaque buildup. Additionally, anti-ischemic drugs are used to relieve symptoms like chest pain by dilating coronary arteries and improving blood flow to the heart muscle.

Interventional and Surgical Procedures

When blockages in the coronary arteries are severe — typically over 70% — doctors may recommend interventional procedures. These include stent placement or drug-coated balloon angioplasty, both of which are minimally invasive techniques. Using a catheter inserted through the radial artery, specialists can navigate to the heart and perform procedures guided by imaging technology. If the coronary artery disease is too complex for catheter-based treatments, open-heart surgery such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may be necessary to restore adequate blood flow.

Lifestyle Modifications

Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is essential for managing and preventing the progression of CHD. Key recommendations include quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and following a balanced diet low in salt and saturated fats. Regular physical activity tailored to individual capabilities helps improve cardiovascular health and maintain a healthy weight. These lifestyle changes not only support other treatment methods but also significantly reduce overall heart disease risk.