Treatment of Vascular atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a condition where fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances accumulate on the walls of arteries, forming plaques. These plaques can lead to narrowing or blockage of arteries, complicating blood flow and increasing the risk of serious cardiovascular diseases and their complications, such as heart attacks or strokes. At Dobrobut Medical Center, a team of specialists offers comprehensive care focused on managing and treating atherosclerosis, with an emphasis on slowing disease progression and preventing complications.

Globally, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death, with atherosclerosis being a major contributing factor. According to the World Health Organization, these diseases cause approximately 17.9 million deaths annually, accounting for 31% of all deaths. Awareness and quality control of the disease are key to reducing these figures, which is why Dobrobut emphasizes early detection and preventive care.

Causes of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis develops under the influence of various risk factors that damage the endothelium, or the inner lining of the arteries. Major factors include:

• High Blood Pressure: Can damage artery walls, making them more vulnerable to plaque formation.
• High Cholesterol Levels: Elevated levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) lead to fat deposits.
• Smoking: Chemicals in tobacco smoke damage blood vessel linings.
• Diabetes and Insulin Resistance: Both conditions are linked to increased inflammation in the blood vessel walls and higher cholesterol levels.
• Obesity: Excess weight can exacerbate other risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of exercise contributes to hypertension, obesity, and poor cholesterol levels.
• Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, and sugar can increase plaque buildup.

Symptoms

Symptoms of atherosclerosis can vary significantly depending on which arteries are affected:

• Coronary Arteries: Potential symptoms include ischemic heart disease signs, such as angina (chest pain), dizziness, or heart attacks.
• Carotid Arteries: May present with sudden numbness or weakness in limbs, speech difficulties, or vision impairment, indicating a possible stroke.
• Peripheral Arteries: Reduced blood flow in limbs may cause pain when walking (intermittent claudication), numbness, or in severe cases, gangrene.
• Renal Arteries: Often causes hypertension or kidney failure.

It is crucial to seek medical assistance if any symptoms arise indicating reduced blood flow to vital areas, such as persistent chest pain, severe headaches, vision or speech problems, or sudden weakness, as they may precede major cardiovascular events.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of atherosclerosis is multifaceted and includes:

• Blood Tests: To identify high cholesterol and glucose levels, which contribute to plaque formation.
• Ultrasound: Used to check blood flow and artery structure.
• CT or MRI: Provide detailed artery images.
• Angiography: Uses dye and X-rays to visualize blood flow in arteries and detect blockages.

Treatment

The core component of atherosclerosis therapy involves lifestyle changes. This includes transitioning to Mediterranean or DASH diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins; regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes of moderate cardio per week); quitting smoking; stress management through breathing exercises, yoga, and psychological counseling.

Medication Therapy may include:

• Statins: Reduce LDL levels and stabilize plaques.
• Antiplatelet Drugs: Such as aspirin to prevent clot formation.
• Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or calcium channel blockers: For blood pressure control.

In severe cases of arterial damage, surgical treatment may be recommended, such as:

• Angioplasty and Stenting: Minimally invasive procedures to open narrowed arteries.
• Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): Uses grafts to bypass blocked arteries.

Recovery

Recovery and rehabilitation focus on lifestyle modification and adherence to medical recommendations to prevent recurrences or further progression of the disease. Patients may work with dietitians, physical therapists, or cardiologists to optimize recovery outcomes and improve quality of life by developing sustainable healthy habits.

Complications

If untreated, atherosclerosis can lead to severe consequences:

• Heart Attacks: Due to complete blockage of coronary arteries.
• Strokes: Resulting from blockages in arteries leading to the brain.
• Aneurysms: Due to weakened arterial walls, which can rupture.
• Peripheral Artery Disease: Leading to severe pain and possible limb loss.

Prevention

Preventive measures aim to reduce risk factors through:

• Regular Medical Check-ups and Cardiovascular Screenings: To monitor cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
• Maintaining a Balanced Diet: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, with limited fats and sugars.
• Regular Physical Activity: Tailored to individual characteristics and needs.
• Weight Management Programs and Smoking Cessation Support.

The specialists at Dobrobut Medical Center provide high-quality, expert care for those struggling with atherosclerosis, offering personalized treatment plans and prevention strategies to improve long-term outcomes.