What is Atherosclerosis?

Description of the disease

Atherosclerosis is a chronic vascular disease characterized by the formation of plaques on the inner walls of arteries. This leads to impaired blood supply to organs and tissues, which can cause serious complications, including heart attack and stroke.

Classification

• Coronary artery atherosclerosis
• Peripheral artery atherosclerosis
• Cerebrovascular atherosclerosis

Symptoms

• Chest pain
• Chronic fatigue
• Pain when walking

Causes

Atherosclerosis is caused by the deposition of cholesterol and other lipids on the walls of blood vessels. Risk factors include high cholesterol levels, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and poor diet.

Diagnosis

Diagnostics of atherosclerosis include Doppler ultrasound of the vessels, angiography, computed tomography, and blood tests.

Treatment

Treatment of atherosclerosis includes taking medications to lower cholesterol, antiplatelet drugs, as well as surgical treatment methods such as stenting and bypass surgery.

Prevention

Prevention of atherosclerosis includes proper nutrition, quitting smoking, regular physical exercise, and control of cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Doctor

For consultation on atherosclerosis, one should consult a cardiologist.