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CT coronary angiogram. A non-invasive scan that uses a contrast dye to produce detailed images of your heart's arteries.
Coronary angiography. An invasive procedure that uses a contrast dye and x-rays to see how blood flows through your heart's arteries.
Tip: Protect your heart through regular screenings. Heart disorders usually have 'silent' symptoms. Check your heart's health regularly to identify hidden risks and gain peace of mind.
How is coronary artery disease treated?
Depending on the severity of your condition and associated risk factors, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medication or surgery. These measures should help you to improve your coronary circulation.
Lifestyle changes
To improve your heart health, you should:
Exercise regularly. Cardio (aerobic) exercise can help to manage weight, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Maintain a healthy body weight. Losing weight can help to reduce risk factors significantly.
Consume a healthy, balanced diet. Aim for more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts.
Reduce stress as much as possible. Practise stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation and mindfulness.
Quit smoking. Quitting is one of the best ways to improve your condition, as smoking is a major risk factor.
Medication
To improve your condition, your doctor may recommend the following medication:
Beta-blockers to reduce blood pressure and heart rate.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors to reduce blood pressure.
Calcium channel blockers to reduce blood pressure and relieve angina.
Statins to reduce total cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol).
If you are at risk of a heart attack, your doctor may also recommend aspirin.
Surgery
If lifestyle changes and medication are unable to improve symptoms, you may need one of the following procedures:
When exactly should you start checking for heart disease, and how does a doctor screen and diagnose a heart condition? Cardiologist Dr Paul Ong explains the details.
Minimally invasive heart surgery has multiple advantages for patients. With an Impella heart pump, even high-risk patients with very weak hearts can now benefit from such treatments with improved safety.