Effects of Artherosclerosis
April 2, 2011 | Health
Artherosclerosis consists of raised areas and cholesterol, which cause plaque to build up in the inner arterial walls, thus leading to obstruction of the blood flow.
The condition is preventable by paying good attention to ones health. by living a lifestyle which includes a balanced diet, and regular exercise.
The effect of artherosclerosis is to build up the plaque deposit in the walls of the arteries, and so increase the chance of suffering a heart attack and other disease. Today most people are aware of the risks associated with heart disease and strokes being caused by high levels of blood cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
The Effects of Artherosclerosis.
Basically arteries are tubes containing three layers, the inner layer, a middle layer composed of muscle, and a supporting outer layer. If the inner layer is damaged it becomes susceptible to various substances like cholesterol, calcium, and general cell waste forming a deposit on the inner artery wall forming plaque.
If this is not recognized the plaque will continue to build and cause the natural blood flow through the artery to be obstructed. Some of the effects of artherosclerosis causing restriction of blood flow depend upon which artery is affected –
Disease of the Coronary Artery.
The coronary arteries are the arteries of the heart and are the passage to and from the heart of oxygenated blood for the functioning of the body parts. If one of the coronary arteries becomes narrowed, then insufficient blood will reach the heart, resulting in chest pain called stable angina.
In more severe cases the plaque and inner wall deposits rupture, and cause complete blockage of the arterial blood flow. The cardiac muscle becomes starved of blood, and muscle tissue starts to die. This is referred to as myocardial infarction (heart attack), and if not fatal. will certainly cause scarring of the heart muscle tissue, thus weakening the heart.
Ischemic Attack and Stroke.
If artherosclerosis causes a blockage in the carotid artery located in the neck, or affects one of the arteries carrying blood to the brain, then neurological effects will be experienced such as weakness in the limbs, numbness in the brain, and slurred speech.
This is referred to as a transient ischemic attack if the effects are temporary, and recovery is made within 24 hours. But if the plaque ruptures and causes arterial blood blockage due to the formation of a blood clot, the neurological changes will be much more severe. The condition is known as an ischemic stroke.
There are other arteries which can be affected by arterosclerosis, and have their own effects on other body parts. –
- Aortic Aneurism. If the large artery (aorta) from the heart to the abdomen is affected by arterosclerosis, it can stretch out like a balloon, and will require urgent surgery.
- Mesenteric Ischemia. These arteries supply the intestine, and if blocked severe pain can be experienced after eating. If the area perforates, intestinal bleeding can occur, needing immediate medical attention.
- Peripheral Vascular Disease. If the arteries supplying the legs are affected, severe pain will occur during walking or standing. Serious cases of this condition can lead to skin ulcers, gangrene, and possible limb amputation.