Atherosclerosis, includes the obstruction of the arteries due to the accumulation of bad fat, cholesterol and other substances in the walls of these. Such deposits are called "plates". Over time, these plaques can narrow the cavity of the arteries or completely obstruct causing great problems at the level of the organism throughout the body. This condition is quite common, since worldwide poor diet is a problem that is spreading more and more, being even the first cause of death in many nations.
The causes that influence the hardening of the arteries come from aging. As a person matures, the accumulation of these plaques causes the arteries to become stiffer and narrower, thus making it difficult for blood to flow through them. Clot formation is also part of this condition, as they prevent blood flow freely. Even if the person has strong blood flow, pieces of plaque can break off and travel to the smallest blood vessels and block them. These blockages are capable of depriving the tissues of blood and oxygen, which can cause great damage to the body, even tissue death.(decrease in tissues and oxygen that produces irreversible damage and death).
It is also a fairly common cause of heart and brain attacks (cerebrovascular accident - CVA). The high level of cholesterol, adds to the hardening of the arteries that can appear at an early age, since for many people the high level of cholesterol is the result of a diet high in saturated fats and harmful to the human body. Some factors that contribute to atherosclerosis are:
- Diabetes.
- Family history of atherosclerosis.
- Arterial hypertension.
- Lack of exercise.
- Overweight.
- Smoking
Basically this condition does not have symptoms that warn the person suffering from it, simply the blood flow in a part of the body becomes slow or blocked, causing the death of the tissue. In the case of the arteries of the heart, these narrow causing chest pain and shortness of breath. The intestines, kidneys, legs, and brain can also become blocked and cause organ problems when this condition occurs.
The most advisable thing in case of medical attention is to carry out a series of studies and physical exams constantly, especially for people who are overweight or elderly. Atherosclerosis can produce a hiss or murmur over the artery which detects the condition. The treatment is based on the lifestyle that reduce the risks of suffering or worsen the obstruction of the veins, some measures that can be taken are:
- Give up smoking.
- Avoid fatty foods.
- Reduce the amount of alcohol you consume.
- Get regular physical activity.
