Definition
Atherosclerosis is the deposition of fatty materials on the endothelium (a thin layer or cells lining the arteries). This build-up of materials or plaque is usually caused by smoking, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
Symptoms
Atherosclerosis shows no symptoms at a younger age, but only in the middle and older age groups.
The common symptoms of Atherosclerosis include:
- Chest pain or angina
- Pain in parts of the body where an artery might be blocked
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Confusion due to blocked circulation
- Weakening of leg muscles
Risk Factors
The plaque that is formed as a result of Atherosclerosis, is responsible for a number of cardiovascular conditions, mainly:
- Coronary Artery disease
- Cerebrovascular disease
- Peripheral artery disease
Diagnosis
A physical exam is recommended for those with the aforementioned symptoms. If your doctor finds signs of narrowed, hardened or enlarged arteries in addition to:
- Weakened pulse or absent pulse below the narrowed artery
- Whooshing sounds heard through a stethoscope in your arteries
- Decreased blood pressure
In all these cases, the doctor may recommend blood tests, Doppler ultrasound, ankle-brachial index, electrocardiogram, stress tests, cardiac catheterization and angiogram; and other imaging tests.
Treatment
Once diagnosed with Atherosclerosis, it is unlikely that the blockage created by the build-up of plaque might go away. However, doctors recommend certain ways in which this condition can be managed through certain lifestyle adjustments and adequate medication.
A Better Lifestyle:
A healthy and more active lifestyle is recommended by doctors. This includes kicking unhealthy habits such as smoking and taking to a healthy diet and including some amount of exercise in your daily life.
Right Medication:
Ensure that you take your high blood pressure and anti cholesterol pills which can help curb the growth of Atherosclerosis further and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
