Coronary Artery Disease: Understanding The Causes And Triggers

Coronary artery disease (CAD) develops due to a combination of underlying causes and triggering factors. The primary cause is the narrowing of the coronary arteries, often caused by the buildup of plaque, which leads to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. This process, known as atherosclerosis, typically begins with damage to the inner lining of the arteries.

Key Factors Leading To Plaque Formation

One of the major contributors to arterial damage is high blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure can injure the smooth endothelial lining of blood vessels, making them rough and uneven. This creates an ideal environment for the accumulation of cholesterol and other substances, which can gradually form plaque deposits on the arterial walls. Over time, these plaques can grow and partially or fully obstruct blood flow through the coronary arteries.

Common Triggers For Severe Symptoms

In certain situations, symptoms of CAD can become significantly worse. Emotional stress or intense physical exertion, for example, can trigger episodes of myocardial ischemia — a condition where the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood. In some cases, especially among individuals with unstable plaque, these stressors can even cause a plaque rupture.

What Happens During A Plaque Rupture?

When a plaque ruptures, it exposes the inner contents of the plaque to the bloodstream, prompting the body to form a blood clot at the site. Initially, this clot is made up of platelets, but it can quickly progress to a fibrin-rich clot that may completely block the artery. If the coronary artery becomes fully blocked, the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, potentially leading to myocardial infarction — more commonly known as a heart attack.