What is Arteriosclerosis?Arteriosclerosis (also known as cardiovascular arteriosclerosis) is a heart condition that occurs when arteries grow thick and stiff and restrict blood flow to organs and tissues in the body. This gradual process, also known as hardening of the arteries, weakens arteries and can develop in various organs, most commonly the heart. Arteries circulate blood throughout the body, but when plaque – fat, cholesterol and other cellular waste – build up on artery walls, arteriosclerosis can develop. Show Arteriosclerosis can develop into atherosclerosis, which can cause heart disease, strokes, circulation problems in the arms and legs, aneurysms that can cause life-threatening internal bleeding and chronic kidney disease. Types of ArteriosclerosisThere are several types of arteriosclerosis. These types can lead to the development of various subtypes of the disorder if not properly treated. The three main types of arteriosclerosis include: Atherosclerosis: In this type, the large arteries are hardened and narrowed. Moenckeberg medial calcific sclerosis: The hardening of small to medium-sized arteries. Arteriolosclerosis: The calcification of small arteries. Even as artery walls gradually thicken and stiffen, there usually are no arteriosclerosis symptoms. Even as the condition worsens into atherosclerosis, mild cases may still show no symptoms. That’s why regular checkups are important. As arteriosclerosis progresses, clogged arteries can trigger a heart attack or stroke, with the following symptoms:
If you experience any of these heart attack or stroke symptoms, see your physician right away. CausesA number of factors can contribute to arteriosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis causes include:
Risk FactorsRisk factors that could contribute to arteriosclerosis include:
DiagnosisEarly diagnosis is critical for managing arteriosclerosis. To diagnose the condition, we ask questions about your medical history and do a physical exam. During the physical exam, your physician can use a stethoscope to listen to your arteries for an abnormal whooshing sound called a bruit (broo-E). A bruit may indicate poor blood flow due to plaque buildup. Diagnosis ProceduresBaptist Health uses advanced diagnostic procedures and technology to effectively diagnose, inform treatment and carefully monitor the condition. Common diagnostic procedures for arteriosclerosis include: Ankle brachial index test: During this test, blood pressure cuffs are placed on the arms and ankles. A handheld ultrasound device or Doppler is used to listen to the blood flow and measure the blood pressure. This helps doctors understand if there is decreased blood flow to the lower legs and feet. Blood test: Blood tests check the levels of certain fats, cholesterol, sugar and protein in the blood that could indicate heart conditions. CT scan: X-rays and computers are used to create images of the aorta, heart and blood vessels. This provides a more detailed picture than an ultrasound. Electrocardiogram (EKG): This test measures the electrical activity of the heart and can help determine if parts of the heart are enlarged, overworked or damaged. The heart’s electrical currents are detected by 12 to 15 electrodes that are attached to the arms, legs and chest via sticky tape. Stress testing: This test is conducted during exercise. If a person can't exercise, medicine is given to increase heart rate. Used along with an EKG, the test can show changes to the heart’s rate, rhythm or electrical activity as well as blood pressure. Exercise makes the heart work hard and beat fast while heart tests are administered, which can help determine an arteriosclerosis diagnosis. Ultrasound: An ultrasound device can measure blood pressure on various points of the arm or leg, which will help the physician determine if you have any blockages and how quickly blood flows through the arteries. PreventionWhile some causes and risk factors like age and heredity cannot be controlled, there are ways you can help to prevent arteriosclerosis:
TreatmentTreatment for arteriosclerosis includes a healthy diet, exercise and medication to control or possibly reverse your condition. If enlarged blood vessels have been diagnosed, our goal is to develop an individualized treatment plan so blood clots do not form. MedicationMedications to treat arteriosclerosis are prescribed based on the location of your enlarged blood vessels and other underlying conditions you may have. Arteriosclerosis treatment medications include:
It is imperative that you monitor your blood pressure and take medications daily as prescribed to lower the possibility of complications. PrognosisThe arteriosclerosis prognosis is good when the condition is treated early with healthy life-style changes, medicines or medical procedures. ComplicationsIf arteriosclerosis is not diagnosed and treated, it could develop into atherosclerosis and cause serious health problems. Complications of arteriosclerosis include:
Baptist Health is known for advanced, superior care for patients with heart disease and the diagnosis, management and treatment of arteriosclerosis. In addition, we are accredited by the American Heart Association as a Mission: Lifeline STEMI Receiving facility, which means we are recognized for providing the highest level of treatment for heart attack patients. What is early stage atherosclerosis?The early stage of atherosclerosis (AS) is characterized by the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) droplets, leading to the creation of foam cells (FC).
What are two of the hallmark signs of atherosclerosis?Coronary artery disease: The warning sign for atherosclerosis in the heart is chest pain when you're active, or angina. It's often described as tightness and usually goes away with rest. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath or fatigue.
What are the 4 stages of atherosclerosis?Atherogenesis can be divided into five key steps, which are 1) endothelial dysfunction, 2) formation of lipid layer or fatty streak within the intima, 3) migration of leukocytes and smooth muscle cells into the vessel wall, 4) foam cell formation and 5) degradation of extracellular matrix.
What are the signs & symptoms of atherosclerosis?If you have atherosclerosis in the arteries leading to your brain, you may have sudden numbness or weakness in your arms or legs, difficulty speaking or slurred speech, temporary loss of vision in one eye, or drooping muscles in your face.
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