Coronary Artery Disease

2 April 2025

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common but serious heart condition that occurs when the blood vessels supplying the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This restricts blood flow, increasing the risk of angina, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular complications.

At The New Foscote Hospital, our cardiology specialists provide comprehensive heart health assessments, advanced diagnostic testing, and personalised treatment plans to help manage and prevent CAD.

Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease

Many people with CAD may not experience symptoms until the condition becomes more advanced. However, common warning signs include:

Chest pain or discomfort (angina) – A tightness or pressure, especially during physical exertion
Shortness of breath – Difficulty breathing, even with mild activity
Fatigue – Feeling unusually tired or weak
Dizziness or lightheadedness – Particularly when standing up or exerting effort
Heart palpitations – An irregular or rapid heartbeat
Nausea or sweating – Especially when combined with chest discomfort

If you experience chest pain or symptoms suggestive of a heart attack, seek immediate medical attention.

Causes & Risk Factors for CAD

Coronary artery disease develops due to the buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Several risk factors contribute to this, including:

🔹 High blood pressure (hypertension) – Puts extra strain on the heart and arteries
🔹 High cholesterol – Leads to plaque formation in blood vessels
🔹 Smoking – Damages arteries and reduces oxygen levels in the blood
🔹 Diabetes – Increases the likelihood of arterial damage
🔹 Obesity – Puts additional stress on the heart
🔹 Lack of exercise – Reduces heart efficiency and increases other risk factors
🔹 Family history – Genetics can play a role in heart disease risk

Lifestyle changes and early detection are key to reducing complications.

Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease

We offer state-of-the-art cardiac diagnostic services, ensuring fast and accurate assessments for CAD:

Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Detects abnormal heart rhythms and signs of past heart attacks
Echocardiogram – Uses ultrasound to assess heart structure and function
Coronary Angiography – A specialised X-ray to visualise blood flow in the coronary arteries
Cardiac CT Scan – Provides detailed images of the heart’s blood vessels
Stress Testing – Evaluates heart performance under physical exertion
Blood Tests – Measures cholesterol, blood sugar, and other cardiovascular risk markers

Early diagnosis allows for more effective management and prevention of complications.

Treatment Options

At The New Foscote Hospital, our cardiologists develop personalised treatment plans based on each patient’s condition and lifestyle. Treatments may include:

Lifestyle modifications – Diet, exercise, and quitting smoking to improve heart health
Medications – To manage cholesterol, blood pressure, and prevent blood clots
Angioplasty & Stent Placement – A minimally invasive procedure to open blocked arteries
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) – Surgery to bypass blocked arteries for improved blood flow
Cardiac Rehabilitation – A structured programme to improve heart health and recovery

Our focus is on preventing complications and improving long-term heart function.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

If you have concerns about heart disease, chest pain, or cardiovascular risk factors, our private GP service provides expert assessment and referrals for specialist care.

Same-day & next-day appointments available
No need to be registered with the hospital
30-minute private GP consultation: £100
Insurance billing available
Referrals for further cardiac tests & specialist consultations

Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease.

Our Resident Private GP’s

Our Private GP’s welcoming and highly experienced. They offer patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.