Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease and leading cause of death in the United States. Parham Parto, MD, MPH, FACC, is an interventional cardiologist and board-certified cardiovascular physician at Parto Heart & Vascular in Los Angeles and Newport Beach, California, who diagnoses and treats coronary artery disease. He provides comprehensive care utilizing cutting-edge techniques. Call the office nearest you today or use the online booking button to schedule an appointment.

What is coronary artery disease?

Coronary heart disease (CAD) is a type of heart disease in which you have blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries, the main arteries in the heart. CAD means your heart isn’t getting enough oxygen-rich blood. 

The narrowing and blockages occur from a buildup of plaque along the blood vessel wall, also called atherosclerosis. Plaque is made up of cholesterol and other substances that travel in your blood. 

The plaque buildup occurs over many years, and you can have CAD and not know it until you have a heart attack.

When should I worry about coronary artery disease?

You should worry about coronary artery disease if it runs in your family or you have other health conditions that put you at risk, such as high cholesterol or hypertension. 

CAD is a chronic disease that develops without causing symptoms until the narrowing of the arteries forces your heart to work harder. Early symptoms include mild chest pain that comes and goes during physical activity and shortness of breath. 

Severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, and dizziness are potential symptoms of heart attack. If you have these symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. 

What tests diagnose coronary artery disease?

Dr. Parto is an experienced interventional cardiologist and performs comprehensive cardiovascular exams when you visit Parto Heart & Vascular with concerns about CAD. He reviews your medical and family histories and symptoms, and performs a physical exam.

He then runs tests to confirm or rule out coronary artery disease, such as:

• Bloodwork
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Stress test
• Chest X-ray
• Cardiac ultrasound
• Coronary calcium scan
• CT scan
• MRI
• Positron emission tomography (PET) 

Dr. Parto may also perform a cardiac catheterization to diagnose CAD. 

Can I manage my coronary artery disease without surgery?

Lifestyle changes and medical interventions are first-line treatments for coronary artery disease. Dr. Parto customizes your treatment plan based on the severity of your CAD. Your plan may include:

• Smoking cessation
• Weight management
• Heart-healthy diet
• Regular exercise
• Medication to manage underlying risk factors

Dr. Parto may also perform interventional cardiology procedures to treat CAD, such as a balloon angioplasty and stenting to widen the narrowing in the artery. 

If you have concerns about coronary artery disease, schedule a consultation at Parto Heart & Vascular by calling the office today or clicking the online booking button.