Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States — but it is also one of the most preventable and treatable conditions in medicine when caught and managed correctly. Arjun Makam, DO, FACC, is a board-certified Interventional Cardiologist with fellowship training at the Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute and Kaiser Sunset Los Angeles, bringing advanced diagnostic and treatment expertise to patients in Anaheim and Corona, CA. Whether you need a diagnostic workup, ongoing management, or a second opinion, call us or request an appointment online today.

What is heart disease?

Heart disease is not a single condition — it is an umbrella term for a range of conditions affecting the heart's structure, function, and blood supply. The most common form is coronary artery disease (CAD), in which plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries over time, gradually narrowing the passageways that deliver oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. When blood flow becomes severely restricted, the result is a heart attack.

Heart disease develops silently over decades. By the time symptoms appear — chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue — significant damage may already exist. This is why early detection, aggressive risk factor management, and specialist-level care matter.

What are the most common types of heart disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) The most prevalent form of heart disease worldwide. Caused by the buildup of atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries over years, driven by elevated LDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, inflammation, and genetic factors. CAD can cause angina (chest pain with exertion), shortness of breath, and — if a plaque ruptures — a heart attack.

Heart attack (myocardial infarction) Occurs when a coronary artery becomes suddenly and completely blocked, cutting off blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle. Every minute of delay causes additional muscle damage. Dr. Makam, DO, FACC, completed advanced fellowship training in Interventional Cardiology at Kaiser Sunset Los Angeles and is trained in the procedures used to open blocked arteries rapidly, including coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Valvular heart disease The heart has four valves that regulate blood flow through its chambers. When a valve becomes too narrow (stenosis) or leaks (regurgitation), the heart must work harder to compensate. Over time this strains the heart muscle and can lead to heart failure. Common conditions include aortic stenosis, mitral regurgitation, and mitral valve prolapse.

Arrhythmias Abnormal heart rhythms occur when the electrical signals that coordinate the heartbeat are disrupted. Some arrhythmias are benign; others — such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia — carry significant risks including stroke, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Dr. Makam evaluates and manages arrhythmias as part of comprehensive cardiac care.

Cardiomyopathy Disease of the heart muscle itself, which can be caused by genetics, prior heart attacks, prolonged high blood pressure, viral infections, or other conditions. Cardiomyopathy weakens the heart's ability to pump effectively and is a common cause of heart failure.

What are the warning signs of heart disease?

Heart disease often goes undetected until a serious event occurs. Symptoms that warrant prompt evaluation include:

• Chest pain, pressure, tightness, or discomfort — especially with exertion
• Shortness of breath during activity or at rest
• Palpitations or awareness of an irregular heartbeat
• Unexplained fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Swelling in the legs or ankles
• Pain radiating to the jaw, left arm, or back

If you are experiencing chest pain or symptoms that suggest a heart attack, call 911 immediately.

What puts me at risk for heart disease?

Risk factors for coronary artery disease and cardiovascular events include:

• Elevated LDL cholesterol — particularly when combined with low HDL or elevated triglycerides
• Lipoprotein(a) elevation — a genetically inherited risk factor that statins do not lower
• Familial Hypercholesterolemia — a genetic condition causing severely elevated LDL from birth
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes or insulin resistance
• Smoking
• Obesity and physical inactivity
• Strong family history of heart disease — particularly in first-degree relatives before age 55 (men) or 65 (women)
• Chronic inflammation (elevated hs-CRP)

As a board-certified Clinical Lipidologist (ABCL), Dr. Makam addresses the lipid and metabolic drivers of heart disease with a level of precision that goes beyond standard cardiology. Managing your risk factors aggressively — before and after a cardiac event — is as important as any procedure.

What can I expect during a heart disease consultation?

Dr. Makam conducts a thorough evaluation tailored to your specific situation. This includes a detailed review of your cardiac history, symptoms, risk factors, family history, and current medications. A physical examination is performed, and diagnostic testing is selected based on what will provide the most clinically meaningful information for your case.

Testing may include:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG) to assess heart rhythm and electrical activity
• Echocardiogram to evaluate heart structure, valve function, and pumping efficiency
• Stress testing to assess blood flow to the heart under exertion
• Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scoring for risk stratification in appropriate patients
• Advanced lipid panel including Lp(a), ApoB, and inflammatory markers
• Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) when indicated

What treatments are available for heart disease?

Treatment is individualized based on the type, severity, and underlying cause of your heart disease. Depending on your situation, your care plan may include:

• Guideline-directed medical therapy to reduce the risk of heart attack and death
• Aggressive lipid management — including PCSK9 inhibitors or siRNA therapy for patients who cannot reach goal on standard medications
• Blood pressure optimization
• Diabetes and metabolic management
• Lifestyle modification including a structured cardiac diet, exercise program, and smoking cessation support
• Interventional procedures when needed, including coronary angiography and PCI
• Close follow-up and coordination with your primary care physician and any other involved specialists

Heart disease is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management — not a one-time fix. Dr. Makam's goal is to be a long-term partner in your cardiovascular health, adjusting your plan as your condition evolves and as new therapies become available.

For expert heart disease care at our Anaheim or Corona, CA offices, call Makam Medical or request an appointment online today.