Atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by buildup of plaque in the arteries making them narrower. It is a specific type of arteriosclerosis, but many times both terms are used interchangeably. The plaque affects the elasticity of arteries and makes them stiff. Arteries are the blood vessels that carry the oxygenated blood and nutrients from the heart to other organs of the body.
The plaque consists of fats, calcium, cholesterol, and other components from the blood. It hardens over time, making the arteries stiffer and blood flow difficult. Any artery of the body can develop atherosclerosis, e.g., heart, kidneys, and legs.
Reduced blood and nutrient supply to organs lead to abnormal organ function. The plaque can loosen up and fall in the bloodstream resulting in clot formation.
High cholesterol is the leading cause of atherosclerosis. Fatty foods and diet containing high amounts of cholesterol can result in atherosclerosis. The other reason is aging, as we all are programmed to die, so as we age, our organs gradually start to lose their function and work harder. The same is the case with our arteries; they try to pump harder, resulting in weakening of muscles and reduced elasticity.
Atherosclerosis runs in families, so your family history is a significant risk factor. Moreover, people with a lack of physical activity, hypertension, unhealthy diet, smoking, and diabetes are also at higher risk of developing atherosclerosis.
At the early stages, there are no characteristic symptoms present. Symptoms mainly occur after the blockage, which includes chest pain (angina), pain in the area of a blocked artery, shortness of breath (dyspnea), fatigue, and weakened muscles. It is crucial to assess symptoms of heart attack and stroke, which may require immediate medical care.
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Classic heart attack symptoms include chest pain, pain in left arm, jaw, and neck, cold sweats, lightheadedness, and abdominal pain.
Stroke symptoms are different, i.e., numbness of limbs and face, trouble speaking, blurred vision, balance problem, sudden or recurrent headaches.
It is essential to understand that both are emergencies and require immediate medical assistance.
The diagnosis is made upon the appearance of symptoms. Your doctor will examine you physically by assessing the pulse rate, ruling out bulging of arteries (aneurysms), etc. He may suggest an ECG (Electrocardiography) according to the need.
Blood tests are performed to assess cholesterol levels. Doppler ultrasound, chest X-ray, Magnetic Resonance Angiography, etc. are performed to check the presence and extent of the blockage.
The stress test is also known as the exercise tolerance test, is performed in which a person exercises on a treadmill, and his heart rate and blood pressure are monitored.
Treatment includes lifestyle changes, i.e., low intake of fatty and junk food and managing the cholesterol levels. Adding up fruits, vegetables, whole grains, white meat, nuts, legumes, and olive oil will help amazingly in earlier stages. Otherwise, even in severe cases, you will have to follow the same diet plan, so it is better to start earlier.
There is a wide range of medications to prevent the worsening of atherosclerosis.
Individual medications are used in combinations to treat specific symptoms, e.g., calcium channel blockers or beta-blockers for lowering blood pressure, statins for lowering cholesterol levels, and anticoagulants for the prevention of blood clots, etc.
Necessary lifestyle changes will help you in the prevention of disease and will keep you protected from life-threatening conditions.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!