Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis (Plaque Build-up in Arteries)

A progressive disorder, atherosclerosis results from fatty deposits called plaque building inside the arteries. Cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other materials make up this plaque, which narrows and hardens blood vessels. Blood supply to important organs, including the heart and brain, thus gets limited, raising the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular disorders.
The disorder develops gradually and may remain undetected for years. High blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and a lazy lifestyle are among the contributing elements, including high cholesterol. Susceptibility also has some genetic component.  For example, pain in the legs could be a sign of peripheral artery disease, while chest pain (angina) is caused by coronary artery disease.
The focus of prevention and management is on lifestyle modifications, including a heart-healthy diet, frequent exercise, and smoking cessation. Blood thinners lower clotting risks; medications such as statins help to lower cholesterol. Severe cases could call for surgical treatments, including bypass surgery or angioplasty.
Early detection through frequent health tests is absolutely vital. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle will greatly reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and guarantee cardiovascular health, thus extending a longer, better life.