Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition characterised by the buildup of plaque in the arteries. It is the most common form of arteriosclerosis, a broader term that refers to the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to various causes.
The development of atherosclerosis involves the accumulation of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium, and other substances within the inner lining of the arteries.
Over time, these deposits, known as plaques, can grow and harden, narrowing the arterial lumen and impairing blood flow.
How It Begins
Atherosclerosis typically begins with damage or injury to the inner lining of the artery, known as the endothelium.
Factors that contribute to endothelial damage include high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, and inflammation.
When the endothelium damages, it allows low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol to enter the arterial wall. When that happens it becomes oxidised, triggering an immune response.
In response to the injury and inflammation, white blood cells, particularly macrophages, migrate into the arterial wall.
These macrophages engulf the oxidised LDL cholesterol and form foam cells, a hallmark of early atherosclerotic plaques.
Over time, smooth muscle cells from the arterial wall migrate to the site of injury and contribute to the formation of a fibrous cap over the plaque.
As the plaque grows, it can restrict blood flow. This will lead to ischemia (lack of blood supply) in the tissues and organs downstream from the affected artery.
If the plaque busts or becomes eroded, it can trigger the formation of a blood clot, which can further block the artery.
Sadly, in the artery it could cause a complete blockage or occlusion. Unfortunately, this will lead to a heart attack or stroke, vascular dementia, erectile dysfunction, or limb loss (1).
Atherosclerosis can cause death and disability.
Symptoms Of Atherosclerosis
The symptoms of atherosclerosis depend on the location and extent of arterial involvement.
Common manifestations include chest pain (angina) in the case of coronary artery disease, leg pain during walking (claudication) in peripheral artery disease, and neurological deficits in case of carotid artery disease.
Furthermore, prevention and management of atherosclerosis involve lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats.
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Other things to do are quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.
Also, medications may be prescribed to control blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and manage other risk factors.
In some cases, medical procedures like angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery may be necessary. This will help restore blood flow to affected arteries.
Interestingly, atherosclerosis is a common and significant health issue that is preventable.
Also, it is a manageable condition through appropriate lifestyle changes and medical interventions.
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