All About Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is the disease of the arteries. It is better known as a lifestyle disease in educated class and so we bring out some briefing about this much common and dreaded health problem.

Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fat substances, cholesterol tends to block the arteries and hence form plaques. These plaques hinder in letting the blood stream flow with normal course. This is because the arteries become narrower and this increases the pressure of the blood. It is a problem for the entire circulatory system.

Further, these plaque may actual break and float in the circulatory system to be deposited at any possible place. This gives rise to heart attacks and strokes.The risk factor is much higher in certain population. People suffering from diabetes are at a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis. Even problems of high blood pressure may lead to development of hardening of arteries.  Hereditary factors are but obvious but these can avoid by following a healthier
life style.

Obesity and smoking have found to be other factors for atherosclerosis occurrence. Normally a person himself will not be able to understand if they are suffering form atherosclerosis. The advice is that if you are part of any risk options as mentioned then you will need to get medical check up regularly.

The diagnosis consists of carotid duplex, arteriography, aortic arteriography, Ankle/Brachial index, renal arteriography, pulmonary angiography, intravascular ultrasound, Doppler study and CT scan. There are some more specific tests and examinations which your physician would be able to guide you better at.

The treatment of the atherosclerosis is aimed to bring down the lipid levels in blood since these are the factors for development of plaques. The blood sugar levels are also critically managed.

Special care is taken to maintain optimal blood pressure. The treatments include coronary artery bypass sugary, minimally invasive heart surgery and Angioplasty.