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Atherosclerosis is a medical term given to a condition when there is a deposition of cholesterol or plaques inside the blood vessels causing hindrance to blood flow in extreme cases. It is also sometimes used as a synonym with arteriosclerosis, though there is a marked difference between them.
Arteriosclerosis is a condition in which initially soft & flexible arteries that supply blood to all the parts and organs of the body become thick, hard and stiff. Arteriosclerosis can occur in a variety of ailments, and atherosclerosis is one of them.
There may be no signs or symptoms until your arteries are narrowed to an extent to cause a stroke or a heart attack. The signs and symptoms will also depend on the location of the artery that has been affected:
Atherosclerosis is a gradual process that mainly occurs due to plaque deposition in the arterial wall. The inner wall of these arteries is called the endothelium. The endothelial cells can get damaged due to certain factors such as:
These chronic ailments can damage the endothelium, and when the endothelial cells become damaged, blood cells start depositing near the damaged area. Gradually, there is a deposition of cholesterol in the inner wall. Slowly, with this constant building up of matter inside the artery, the artery is narrowing. It also becomes thickened and hardened, impacting the blood flow.
Sometimes, the plaque deposits may rupture and sail free in the blood, leading to blood clots. These blood clots can be extremely harmful when they obstruct the blood to an organ or a body part, leading to the deprivation of oxygen and nutrients. These blood clots can travel to multiple sites in the body and can be fatal.
There are no definite causes for atherosclerosis, though certain risk factors may predispose you to this condition.
Of all the risk factors, the major one is high cholesterol or imbalance in the cholesterol in your body. Our blood consists of lipoproteins that aid in transporting water-insoluble lipids or fats in the blood. These lipoproteins are divided into five types - High-density Lipoproteins (HDL), Low-density lipoproteins (LDL), Very Low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). The high-density lipoprotein is referred to as good cholesterol as it prevents plaque build-up inside the artery. In contrast, the low and very low lipoproteins are considered bad cholesterol as they promote atherosclerosis.
You had a blockage because you have an underlying chronic condition most probably associated with your faulty lifestyle. Once the doctors know your condition, the blockage will be managed with medication or even surgery if required.
The surgical medical interventions which may be required are as follows:
Medications: It is worth noting that the surgical procedures are meant to relieve the obstruction but do not guarantee that blockage will not occur again. The doctors may prescribe you certain medications to optimise your cholesterol levels, blood pressure, diabetes, or other related disorders.
Lifestyle Modifications: A sedentary lifestyle coupled with a diet rich in fats is the primary factor for atherosclerosis. If one needs to avoid this condition altogether, adequate lifestyle changes are highly essential. One needs to be physically active and exercise once or twice daily without fail.
Diet: Our eating habits decide the course of our lives in future. So, eating seasonal fruits & vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and keeping the minimum intake of artificial sweeteners, aerated drinks, and junk food will help us avoid atherosclerosis.
