Understand Atherosclerosis, the Silent Threat To Our Arteries
The condition of Atherosclerosis (also known as hardening the arteries) is silent, but a serious threat to health. Plaques, which are composed of cholesterol, fats and calcium, can cause this potentially dangerous disease. These plaques may cause the arteries over time to become narrowed or blocked. This can lead to heart conditions like coronary artery diseases, carotid arterial disease and peripheral arterial disease. Many people are unaware that it exists until they develop severe symptoms.
Atherosclerosis: What Is It About?
The global health issue of atherosclerosis affects millions. The World Health Organization states that cardiovascular disease (CVDs) is the leading cause of death in the world. In 2016, 17.9 millions people were estimated to have died of CVDs, which accounted for 31% all deaths worldwide. Over three quarters of these deaths were caused by heart attacks or strokes - complications that are often related to atherosclerosis.
This disease progresses slowly and typically begins during the adolescent years. Its effects are not usually noticed until the middle or later years of life. Plaques narrow arteries as they grow. This makes it harder for the blood to circulate and robs organs of oxygen and nutrients.
Common Causes of Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is not completely understood. Certain factors do contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. Some of these factors include:
- Blood pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Unhealthy diet
- Early heart disease in families with a family history
Common Treatments for Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is treated to decrease symptoms, slow down the progression of disease and reduce the risks of complications. Treatments include:
- Changes in lifestyle: This includes quitting smoking and eating healthy food, as well as increasing your physical activity.
- Medication: Drugs can be prescribed for lowering cholesterol, managing blood pressure, preventing blood clots or controlling blood sugar.
- In cases of severe heart disease, surgical procedures like angioplasty, stent placement or bypass surgery may be required.
Lifestyle changes have been shown to reduce atherosclerosis risk by as much as 80% , according to studies . Statins (a cholesterol-lowering drug) have been shown to reduce the risk of a heart attack by around 25% .
Atherosclerosis: Expert opinions
Experts emphasize the importance of prevention when managing atherosclerosis. A study in The Lancet found that addressing modifiable risks such as obesity, smoking, poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle can reduce heart disease. Clinical trials have shown that addressing these modifiable risk factors, such as smoking, unhealthy diets and lack of physical activity can reduce the incidence of heart disease.
Tips and Natural Remedies
Natural remedies, lifestyle changes and standard treatment can all help to prevent atherosclerosis or reduce its progression. They include:
- A heart healthy diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, proteins and whole grains
- Exercising regularly
- Weight management: How to maintain a healthy body weight
- Quitting smoking
- Alcohol consumption should be limited
- Stress management: a guide to managing it effectively
Atherosclerosis, in conclusion, is an issue of health that's prevalent yet often ignored. To prevent the progression of atherosclerosis and its potentially fatal complications, early detection and aggressive risk factor management are essential. This condition can be effectively managed by a combination of lifestyle modifications, medication, and, in some cases surgical procedures. We can reduce the risk of atherosclerosis by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
.