Atherosclerosis
Overview
The arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Atherosclerosis is a common disease where these arteries become narrow and stiff because of a buildup of plaque on their walls. This plaque is made up of fats, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. The most common form affects the arteries of the heart, leading to coronary artery disease, which can cause chest pain and heart attacks. Another form is peripheral artery disease, where the arteries in the legs are affected, causing pain and difficulty walking.
Our approach
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which arteries become narrowed and hardened due to a buildup of plaque on the artery walls. This plaque is composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, cellular waste products, calcium, and fibrin. The buildup restricts blood flow, which can lead to serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease. Symptoms may not be apparent until significant blockage occurs and can vary depending on which arteries are affected:
- Chest pain or angina (if coronary arteries are affected)
- Shortness of breath
- Numbness or weakness in arms or legs (if peripheral arteries are affected)
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech (if cerebral arteries are affected)
- Vision problems
- High blood pressure
Diagnosis
Healthcare professionals diagnose atherosclerosis through a combination of assessments:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: Evaluating risk factors such as age, family history, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol levels.
- Blood Tests: Checking levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, and markers of inflammation.
- Imaging Tests:
- Ultrasound: Visualizes blood flow and detects blockages in arteries.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Detects abnormalities in heart rhythm and structure.
- Stress Testing: Assesses heart function during physical exertion or medication-induced stress.
- Angiography: Uses contrast dye and imaging techniques like X-ray, CT scan, or MRI to view arterial blockages.
- Ankle-Brachial Index: Compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm to detect peripheral artery disease.
Providers for Atherosclerosis
View All ProvidersLocations for Atherosclerosis
M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center - Minneapolis
M Health Fairview Clinics and Specialty Center - Maplewood
Treatments for Atherosclerosis
Treatment plans are individualized and may include a combination of:
- Lifestyle Modifications:
- Adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
- Engaging in regular physical activity.
- Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques.
- Medications:
- Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs: Statins like atorvastatin or simvastatin to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
- Antiplatelet Agents: Aspirin or clopidogrel to prevent blood clots.
- Blood Pressure Medications: ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics to control hypertension.
- Blood Sugar Management: Medications to control diabetes if applicable.
- Medical Procedures and Surgery:
- Angioplasty and Stenting: Inserting a balloon catheter to open narrowed arteries, often placing a stent to keep them open.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): Creating a bypass around blocked coronary arteries using a vessel from another part of the body.
- Endarterectomy: Surgical removal of plaque from artery walls.
- Thrombolytic Therapy: Administering medication to dissolve blood clots obstructing arteries.
- Regular Monitoring: Scheduling follow-up visits to assess treatment effectiveness and adjust as needed.
- Education and Support: Learning about disease management and accessing resources for lifestyle changes.
This comprehensive approach aims to slow the progression of atherosclerosis, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall cardiovascular health.