Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD)

Ischemic heart disease is a disease characterized by reduced blood supply to the heart.

Coronary artery disease (or Ischemic heart disease) is a condition in which fatty deposits (atheroma) accumulate in the cells lining the wall of the coronary arteries. These fatty deposits build up gradually and irregularly in the large branches of the two main coronary arteries which encircle the heart and are the main source of its blood supply. This process is called atherosclerosis which leads to narrowing or hardening of the blood vessels supplying blood to the heart muscle (the coronary arteries). This results in ischemia (inability to provide adequate oxygen) to heart muscle and this can cause damage to the heart muscle. Complete occlusion of the blood vessel leads to a heart attack (myocardial infarction).

Risk Factors
1. Family history
2. Hyperlipidemia (Cholesterol & Triglycerides)
3. Inactive lifestyle
4. Overweight
5. Hypertension
6. Smoking
7. Stress
8. Trans-fat rich Diet
9. Type A Personality

Treatment / Measures
1. Stop smoking
2. Reduce elevated cholesterol
3. Treat elevated blood pressure
3. Reduce stress
4. Maintain ideal body weight
5. Balloon angioplasty
6. Bypass Surgery
7. Heart transplant