Pathophysiological Concepts in Nursing
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, primarily due to atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of cholesterol and other substances on the arterial walls. This condition can lead to decreased blood flow to the heart muscle, resulting in ischemia and potentially causing chest pain (angina) or heart attacks. Understanding CAD is crucial as it has direct implications for blood pressure regulation, can contribute to heart failure, and is a leading cause of myocardial infarction.
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