Atherosclerosis
Overview of Atherosclerosis
Causes of Atherosclerosis
Signs and Symptoms of Atherosclerosis
Diagnosis of Atherosclerosis
Treatment for Atherosclerosis
Complications of Atherosclerosis
Prevention for Atherosclerosis
Overview of Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis refers to the development of fatty deposits on the walls of the medium and large blood vessels. These fatty deposits commonly known as atheromas or atherosclerotic plaques obstruct the normal flow of blood through the blood vessels. Atherosclerosis is the most common type of arteriosclerosis (thickening of blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood in the body) and is sometimes used as a synonym of arterisclerosis. The blood vessels of the heart, brain, kidneys, legs and other vital organs may be affected either directly or indirectly. This is the most common cause of heart disorders and the associated cases of death in the developed countries.1,2
Causes of Atherosclerosis
Causes for athetosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is now recognised as an inflammatory process, which may be triggered by various mechanisms such continued flow of blood at an increased pressure through the blood vessels (as in hypertension), presence of
Signs and Symptoms of Atherosclerosis
Symptoms of Atherosclerosis
The signs and symptoms involved vary based on the blood vessel that is blocked and the area or organ being supplied by the blood vessel. Generally, atherosclerosis does not produce any features until the block results in a
Diagnosis of Atherosclerosis
The diagnosis of atherosclerosis is based on the clinical features observed, physical examination and appropriate investigations. The investigations that are advised include CT and MRI scanning, ultrasound examination and certain blood tests to rule out the presence of underlying conditions.
Treatment of Atherosclerosis
Treatment for Atherosclerosis
The treatment varies with the severity of the accumulation and the complications that may have arisen due to the blockage of the blood vessels. In less severe-to-moderate cases, lifestyle modifications and certain medications
Complications for Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis can lead to complications such as cardiac stroke/failure, brain stroke, kidney failure and formation of gangrene in the legs or toes.
Prevention of Atherosclerosis
Formation of atherosclerotic patches can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle with adequate exercises and control of disorders such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
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Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: April 5, 2012
Image courtesy: healthwise