Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, or “hardening of the arteries,” affects millions of people. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium and other substances in the inner lining of an artery. This buildup is called plaque and it can grow large enough to reduce the blood flow in an artery (like a clogged drain). But most of the damage occurs when the plaque becomes fragile and suddenly ruptures. Plaques that rupture cause blood clots to form and can block the flow of blood or break off and travel to another part of the body. If either happens and blocks a blood vessel that feed the heart, it causes a heart attack. If it blocks a blood vessel that feeds the brain, it causes a stroke. And if blood supply to the arms or legs is reduced, it can cause difficulty walking and eventually lead to gangrene.

A blockage in your legs, feet, arms or hands is called Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) or Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) , both refer to any diseases of the blood vessels outside of the heart. A build up plaque in the arteries that nourish the heart is called coronary artery disease. arteries

Causes of Atherosclerosis

Cholesterol is a necessary component of the human cell; but, over time, cholesterol in the blood can become deposited on the inside walls of the arteries. This seems to happen faster in people who:

  • Smoke 
  • Have high blood pressure
  • Eat high fat, high cholesterol foods, or, for other reasons, have high cholesterol
  • Are overweight
  • Have a lot of tension and stress
  • Do not exercise regularly
  • Have diabetes and/or family members with a history of atherosclerosis