What is the difference between CAD and a heart attack?
CAD is the underlying disease — plaque in coronary arteries. A heart attack occurs when a plaque ruptures and blocks blood flow. Treating CAD early helps prevent heart attacks.
Core Cardiology · Columbia, MO
Coronary Artery Disease Treatment in Columbia, MO
Coronary artery disease develops when plaque narrows the arteries that supply the heart. Early detection and aggressive risk reduction can prevent heart attacks and improve long-term outcomes.
Overview
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of heart attack. Risk factors include high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and family history. PulsePoint cardiologists in Columbia, MO help patients understand their risk, interpret symptoms and test results, and build a plan that may include lifestyle change, medications, stress testing, imaging, and coordination with interventional specialists when needed.
PulsePoint Clinic serves patients in Columbia, Boone County, Jefferson City, Fulton, Moberly, and communities across Central Missouri.
Common symptoms
- Chest pressure or discomfort with exertion (angina)
- Shortness of breath with activity
- Fatigue during ordinary tasks
- Pain in the jaw, arm, or back with exertion
- Sometimes no symptoms until a cardiac event
When to see a cardiologist
- Chest pain or pressure, especially with exertion
- Multiple cardiovascular risk factors
- Abnormal stress test or calcium score
- Family history of early heart disease
- Known CAD needing medication or follow-up
How PulsePoint treats coronary artery disease
Risk factor management: cholesterol, BP, diabetes, smoking
Stress testing and advanced cardiac imaging when indicated
Medical therapy to stabilize plaque and reduce events
Lifestyle and exercise guidance appropriate for your risk
Referral coordination for catheterization when necessary
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a stress test for coronary disease?
Not everyone does. Stress testing is recommended when symptoms or risk factors suggest flow-limiting blockages that would change your treatment plan.
Does PulsePoint manage coronary artery disease in Columbia?
Yes. Our Core Cardiology program provides comprehensive CAD evaluation and long-term management for patients throughout Mid-Missouri.
Related heart conditions
Hypertension
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, yet it quietly damages the heart, brain, kidneys, and arteries. Physician-led hypertension care helps you understand your numbers and build a plan that works.
Heart Failure
Heart failure means the heart cannot pump effectively — not that it has stopped. With the right plan, many patients live actively and reduce hospitalizations.
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common sustained heart rhythm disorder in adults. Clear diagnosis and a thoughtful plan protect both your heart and your brain.
This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you have chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, stroke symptoms, or another emergency, call 911.
Your Heart Deserves Exceptional Care.
Let's build your personalized plan for a healthier tomorrow.