What to Do When Your CAD Treatment Plan Stops Working
It's normal for your treatment plan to need an update.
Your coronary artery disease (CAD) treatment plan is designed to manage symptoms and prevent complications. But over time, your condition may change. What once worked well may no longer be effective. Recognizing when it’s time to adjust your plan is key to keeping your heart healthy.
Signs your treatment may need to change
If you experience any of the following, it may be time to revisit your treatment plan with your doctor:
- More frequent chest pain (angina). This can signal that your heart is working harder than it should.
- Shortness of breath. Feeling winded during everyday activities, like climbing stairs, could signal that your heart isn’t pumping as effectively as it should.
- Increased fatigue, even with rest. This could be a sign that your heart isn’t getting enough oxygen.
- Worsening blood pressure or cholesterol levels. If your numbers aren’t improving despite medication and lifestyle changes, it may be time to explore other options.
Next steps
If your symptoms are changing, your doctor may recommend that you:
- Adjust your medications.
- Explore new procedures, such as angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery.
- Make lifestyle changes.
- Keep a symptom journal. Tracking your symptoms can help your doctor identify patterns.
