Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, a common disorder, occurs when a fatty substance builds up inside the artery walls. As it accumulates, the substance thickens and solidifies. If enough collects, the artery can become completely blocked off. Atherosclerosis is a version of arteriosclerosis. However, the two terms are often used interchangeably.

Causes

The material that builds up along the artery walls, known as plaque, is a mixture of fat and cholesterol among other things. Over time, the plaque narrows and stiffens the arteries, reducing blood flow. If the circulation through the coronary arteries becomes restricted, the quantity of blood reaching the heart may be reduced or stopped altogether. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, heart attack, and other symptoms.

When pieces of plaque break away from the wall of the artery and drift through the bloodstream, your chances of heart attack and stroke increase. Plaque deposits also attract blood clots, which also impede blood flow. If the clot migrates to the heart, lungs, or brain, it may trigger a stroke, heart attack, or pulmonary embolism.

Risk factors

Risk factors for atherosclerosis include:

Diabetes.
High blood pressure.
High cholesterol.
High-fat diet.
Being overweight.
Hereditary heart disease.
Smoking.

Evidence also shows that these ailments have also been connected to atherosclerosis:

Cerebrovascular disease.
Kidney disease where dialysis is a requirement.
Peripheral vascular disease.

Symptoms

Typically, people suffering from atherosclerosis do not experience any related symptoms unless blood flow is reduced or stopped. If this is the case, the person may notice chest or leg discomfort, depending on the affected artery. Sometimes, symptoms only happen if the person is physically active.

Treatment

A physician will probably recommend a low-fat diet, weight loss if you are obese, and exercise. A variety of medication can be taken to manage atherosclerosis, and blood thinners may be administered to combat the formation of clots. Additional prescription drugs may be advised to reduce cholesterol and maintain healthy blood pressure.

Atherosclerosis can contribute to coronary heart disease. If you have been diagnosed with the disease, but you are not displaying any symptoms, you may be treated with medicine of angioplasty with stenting. Research has shown that these two options have equal benefits. Angioplasty does not increase lifespan, but can help minimize angina and other symptoms of coronary heart disease. On the other hand, it can save your life during a heart attack. Some patients may be required to undergo a procedure known as an endartectomy to get rid of plaque.

As people get up in age, atherosclerosis is unavoidable and can lead to heart attack or stroke.

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