Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most prevalent forms of heart disease, impacting millions of individuals globally. It occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque—a combination of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. Understanding what happens to your heart over time with CAD is crucial for prevention and management.

Initially, the process of atherosclerosis—the hardening and narrowing of arteries—begins. This gradual progression often starts early in life and can continue for decades without any obvious symptoms. As plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, several critical changes occur in the heart:

1. Decreased Blood Flow:
As the arteries narrow, the blood flow to the heart muscle diminishes. This can lead to chest pain or discomfort, commonly known as angina, especially during physical exertion or stress.

2. Heart Muscle Damage:
Over time, the reduced blood flow can cause parts of the heart muscle to weaken and become damaged. If this continues, it can lead to heart failure, where the heart can no longer pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs.

3. Risk of Heart Attack:
A critical consequence of CAD is the risk of a heart attack or myocardial infarction. This occurs when a plaque ruptures, leading to the formation of a blood clot that can completely block blood flow to a section of the heart. The longer the heart muscle is without blood, the greater the damage.

4. Arrhythmias:
Coronary artery disease can lead to irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmias. This happens when the electrical signals that regulate your heartbeat are interrupted due to damage or ischemia (lack of blood flow) in heart tissue.

5. Progression to Advanced Disease:
As CAD progresses, symptoms may become more severe. Individuals may experience worsening angina, increased fatigue, and even shortness of breath during simple activities or at rest, signaling advanced coronary artery disease.

Management and Prevention:
Understanding the progression of CAD is essential for prevention and management. Lifestyle changes such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking are crucial. Clinical interventions, including medications and surgical options like angioplasty or bypass surgery, may be necessary for advanced cases.

Conclusion:
Coronary artery disease significantly impacts the heart over time, with potentially life-threatening consequences. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early and making proactive health choices can help manage the disease effectively and improve quality of life.