Understanding Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is when the walls of blood vessels that carry blood from the heart
to the rest of the body become thickened due to plaque buildup and inflammation. This
can lead to stiffening and narrowing of the arteries. The condition can start as early
as childhood. It can affect arteries all over the body. It can lead to many health
problems, depending on which arteries in the body are affected. Narrowed heart arteries
may lead to a heart attack. Narrowed arteries that bring blood to the brain can cause
a stroke.
How does it happen?
Atherosclerosis is a disease that develops slowly over time. Excess cholesterol and
other matter in the blood form plaques, which line the inner wall of the arteries.
Some plaques are hard and contain large amounts of calcium. Others are soft. These
are made mostly of semi-liquid cholesterol and inflammatory cells that are contained
by a fibrous cap. Atherosclerosis can lead to narrowed arteries. This makes it harder
for blood to carry oxygen and nutrients to the brain, heart, kidneys, and other organs.
If the fibrous cap of soft plaque bursts open (ruptures), these contents are exposed
to the bloodstream. This causes a blood clot that can block the artery. This can lead
to a heart attack, stroke, or other serious or even life-threatening problem with
the circulation. Diseases caused by atherosclerosis are the leading cause of death
in the U.S.
How can I prevent it?
Certain risk factors increase the chance of having atherosclerosis. These include
high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. So managing these conditions
can also help reduce your risk for atherosclerosis. This in turn can help prevent
the heart conditions that can result.
These are some of the things you can do to reduce your risk:
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Get regular exercise
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Eat a diet low in fat, salt, and cholesterol
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Quit smoking, if you smoke
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Control high blood pressure
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Reduce stress
Working with your healthcare provider to keep your risk factors low is important.
Age and a family history of early heart disease are also risk factors for atherosclerosis.
How is it treated?
Treatment for atherosclerosis starts with a healthy diet, physical activity, healthy
weight, and a smoke-free lifestyle. Certain medicines can help lower cholesterol and
blood pressure. Some people who have risk factors for atherosclerosis or a heart attack
may be prescribed aspirin. This depends on your age and your own risk factors. It's
a decision that should be made between you and your healthcare provider. These medicines
can slow or even reverse the condition. They can also help protect you from having
a heart attack or stroke. If you have or are at high risk for atherosclerosis, your
provider can advise which treatment is best for you.