Heart attacks have long been perceived as abrupt, unexpected or even silent at times but, in many of them lies a long-developing and quiet condition which is medically termed as Atherosclerosis. A deadly condition in which the arteries present in the heart gradually narrow and harden over time and has been diagnosed as the underlying condition of many cardiovascular diseases and heart strokes. Atherosclerosis remains unnoticed until it is well established.
Understanding atherosclerosis
This occurs when plaque, a sticky substance that is made of fat, cholesterol and calcium, accumulates and stick to the arteries. This slowly progresses and hardens over time, leading to narrowed arteries and the passage in which blood flows. Over time, leading to decreased oxygen levels and nutrient supply to essential organs.
Not only the artery, this condition affects the coronary arteries as well, which supply the heart, but may also effect arteries to the brain, kidneys and legs. Complete closure over time, may lead to a heart attack or stroke with no or minimal warning signs.
Usually, the plaque development is quite early in life, but their symptoms will not be evident till later stages. In most scenarios, the first clinical presentation is a significant cardiovascular event.
What are its risk factors and causes
Atherosclerosis is caused by an amalgam of lifestyle, medical, and hereditary factors. Some of the most well-known contributors are:
- Increased levels of LDL cholesterol
- Increased blood pressure (hypertension)
- Diabetes and insulin resistance
- Smoking or secondhand exposure to tobacco smoke
- Diets rich in saturated fats, trans fats, and processed sugar
- Sedentary behavior
- Obesity, central obesity in particular
- Chronic stress and inflammation
While age is also a critical issue, arterial stiffness increases with age. Men are often subjected to premature atherosclerosis. A family history of cardiac arrest can also be the reason, as this reflects genetic susceptibility.
How to diagnose
- Lipid profile test to check for cholesterol levels
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Blood tests for glucose to look for diabetes signs of diabetes
- ECG or stress-related test to check for heart function
After being detected, the advancement of atherosclerosis may be slowed and/or controlled. In most cases, dramatic improvement may be achieved with non-invasive interventions.
What can clinical guidelines highlight the need for:
- A high-fiber, whole-grain, fruit, vegetable, and healthy fat diet in the form of the fats in fish, nuts, and olive oil
- A regular intake of physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming
- Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke
- Weight control and management of central obesity
- Reduction of stress through mindfulness, therapy, or formal relaxation techniques
- Control of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, usually with medications where necessary
Heart attacks hardly ever happen unexpectedly within the body. Most often, they are the result of decades of unrecognized injury from plaque deposition within the arteries. Clarity regarding the contribution of atherosclerosis means that healthcare systems, populations, and individuals can target interventions that can diminish the worldwide burden of cardiovascular disease.
