Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances (plaque) inside the walls of arteries, leading to narrowing and hardening of these blood vessels. This narrowing restricts blood flow and increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. Symptoms may not appear until arteries are significantly narrowed and can include chest pain, pain in limbs during exercise, shortness of breath, and fatigue. The disease starts early in life and worsens with age, driven by factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and genetic predisposition. Diagnosis involves physical exams and various tests, while prevention relies on lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, exercise, and not smoking. Treatments range from medications to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure to surgical interventions in advanced cases.
Overview
- Atherosclerosis involves plaque buildup that narrows arteries and impedes blood flow.
- It can lead to cardiovascular diseases including heart attack and stroke.
- Plaque consists of fat, cholesterol, immune cells, and calcium.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Damage to the arterial lining from high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, inflammation, and other factors.
- Lifestyle and genetic factors contribute significantly.
Symptoms
- Usually asymptomatic in early stages.
- Symptoms arise with arterial narrowing, such as chest pain (angina), limb pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosed through physical exams, imaging, and stress tests.
- Treated with lifestyle modifications, cholesterol and blood pressure medications, and sometimes surgical procedures.
Disease Progression
- Starts with fatty streaks in arteries from a young age.
- Progresses to fibrous plaques and complicated lesions that can rupture causing blood clots.
This condition is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, making its prevention and management critical.
