I21.9

Clinical Causes: Blockage in coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis (buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances) Formation of blood clots that obstruct blood flow Coronary artery spasm restricting blood flow temporarily Uncontrolled high blood pressure damaging arteries Elevated cholesterol levels contributing to plaque formation Smoking, which damages blood vessel walls and increases clot risk Diabetes mellitus affecting blood vessels and circulation Stress and physical exertion acting as triggers for plaque rupture Rare causes like coronary artery dissection or embolism

Key Symptoms: Chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure or squeezing Pain radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, or back Shortness of breath Sweating or clamminess Nausea or vomiting Lightheadedness or dizziness Weakness or fatigue Anxiety or a feeling of impending doom

Diagnosis Path: Electrocardiogram (ECG) to detect characteristic changes in heart rhythm and electrical activity Blood tests measuring cardiac enzymes like troponin, which increase when heart muscle is damaged Imaging studies such as echocardiography to assess heart function Coronary angiography in some cases to visualize blood flow through the coronary arteries

Treatment Protocols: Medications such as antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), nitroglycerin, beta-blockers, and statins Emergency procedures like percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to open blocked arteries Thrombolytic therapy (clot-busting drugs) in appropriate cases Oxygen therapy if oxygen levels are low Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery in severe or complex cases Lifestyle modifications including diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and managing risk factors