What effect does coronary artery disease have on blood flow to the heart?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. When these arteries become narrowed due to the buildup of plaque—consisting of fat, cholesterol, and other substances—this restricts the blood flow that reaches the heart.

As a result of this narrowing, there may not be enough oxygen-rich blood supplied to meet the heart’s needs, especially during periods of exertion or stress. This deficiency in blood flow can lead to chest pain known as angina. Angina serves as a warning sign that the heart is not receiving adequate blood supply and may increase the risk of more severe ischemic incidents, such as myocardial infarction (heart attack).

The other outcomes suggest complete or no impact, which misrepresents the pathophysiology of CAD. While it is possible for blood flow to be completely obstructed in severe cases, this abstraction represents only a severe progression of the disease and is not the typical effect of coronary artery disease on blood flow overall. Similarly, the notion that CAD would increase blood flow directly contradicts the nature of the condition, as does the assertion that it has no effect on blood flow at all. Understanding the relationship between CAD and blood