Atherosclerosis Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment
What Is Atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is a medical term that refers to the stiffening or hardening of arterial walls, which are normally flexible. Arteries are the blood vessels responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body’s organs and tissues. Atherosclerosis can disrupt blood flow and impair the normal functions of the circulatory system.
This condition develops gradually over many years and can be dangerous because it progresses silently, often without symptoms until complications arise. Arteriosclerosis increases the risk of a wide range of cardiovascular diseases (conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels).
While the terms “atherosclerosis” and “arteriosclerosis” are often used interchangeably, they have slightly different definitions:
Arteriosclerosis refers to the hardening of arteries for any reason.
Arteriosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis caused by plaque buildup.
Understanding the different types of arteriosclerosis can provide insight into how they affect the body.
Types of Arteriosclerosis
There are three main types of arteriosclerosis:
Atherosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis is the gradual accumulation of plaques (hardened deposits) in the walls of medium and large arteries. Examples of affected arteries include:
- The aorta.
- The coronary arteries.
- The carotid arteries.
- The femoral arteries.
- The iliac arteries.
- Plaques build up in the inner layer of the artery wall (the intima).
In the early stages, arteriosclerosis is typically causes no symptoms. However, as the plaques grow, the artery’s opening gradually narrows, reducing the space available for blood flow. Plaque buildup also increases the risk of blood clots forming on the plaques, which can completely block blood flow. These clots can lead to medical emergencies such as a heart attack or stroke.
Microvascular Arteriosclerosis
While arteriosclerosis primarily affects medium or large arteries, microvascular arteriosclerosis impacts small arteries. These small vessels, called arterioles, connect larger arteries to capillaries and play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and blood flow strength throughout the body.
Microvascular arteriosclerosis refers to the thickening of small artery walls, which can affect small arteries in various parts of the body, including the kidneys and brain. When the walls of these small arteries become excessively thick, they lose their ability to function properly. This can prevent sufficient blood flow to organs, leading to complications.
Monckeberg’s Arteriosclerosis
Also known as arterial medial calcification, this condition involves the accumulation of calcium in the middle layer of the arterial wall (the media). The calcification causes the arterial walls to stiffen. It is most common in people over 50 but may occur earlier in individuals with specific medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease.
This condition can impair blood flow and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
What Are the Symptoms of Arteriosclerosis?
Arteriosclerosis often causes no symptoms until complications arise. Symptoms vary widely depending on the affected area and may include:
- Pain or burning in the feet while at rest.
- Changes in urination frequency.
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Dizziness
- Dry, itchy, or numb skin.
- Fatigue
- Heart palpitations.
- Leg pain.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Shortness of breath.
- Slurred speech or difficulty communicating.
- Ulcers on the feet.
- Swelling (edema).
- Loss of vision in one eye.
- Weakness on one side of the body.
What Causes Atherosclerosis?
Arteriosclerosis results from changes in the arterial wall, which initially occur at a microscopic level, affecting cells. For instance, damage to the inner lining of the artery (endothelium) can lead to the development of arteriosclerosis.
These changes often happen with aging. While age-related risks are unavoidable, it is crucial to recognize and manage other modifiable risk factors, such as lifestyle changes.
Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis
Factors contributing to arteriosclerosis include:
- Chronic kidney disease.
- High blood pressure.
- High cholesterol.
- Aging
- Lack of physical activity.
- Metabolic syndrome.
- Smoking
- Type 2 diabetes.
Impact of Atherosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis disrupts the normal flow of blood in the body. Stiff arteries make it difficult for oxygen and nutrients to reach organs and tissues. This can lead to complications such as:
- Aneurysm (vessel dilation and rupture risk).
- Carotid artery disease.
- Coronary artery disease.
- Acute limb ischemia.
- Heart attack.
- Kidney failure.
- Intestinal ischemia.
- Peripheral artery disease.
- Pulmonary embolism.
- Renal artery stenosis.
- Stroke
- Thrombosis
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA).
Interplay Between Arteriosclerosis Types
It is possible to have multiple forms of arteriosclerosis simultaneously, which can accelerate the progression of complications.
For example, research suggests that arterial medial calcification can speed up artery narrowing when arteriosclerosis is present. Typically, the arterial wall compensates for plaque formation in the inner layer (intima) by expanding outward, keeping the artery’s opening wide enough for blood flow. However, calcification in the middle layer (media) reduces this compensatory ability, worsening the narrowing and restricting blood flow more quickly.
If the Middle Layer Becomes Rigid
When the middle layer (media) of the arterial wall becomes stiff, the artery loses its elasticity and cannot expand outward. Consequently, plaque buildup in the inner layer (intima) encroaches on the artery’s lumen (opening), leading to narrowing and restricted blood flow.
How Is Atherosclerosis Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose arteriosclerosis through the following steps:
- Physical examination.
- Discussion of medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms.
- Ordering diagnostic tests.
Tests to Diagnose Atherosclerosis
Doctors may request tests to assess blood vessel health, blood flow, and heart function. These may include:
- Abdominal ultrasound.
- Angiography (imaging of blood vessels).
- Ankle-brachial index (ABI).
- Carotid artery ultrasound.
- Chest X-ray.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan.
- Echocardiogram (Echo).
- Electrocardiogram (EKG).
- Stress test.
How Is Atherosclerosis Treated?
Treatment for atherosclerosis may involve:
- Lifestyle changes (e.g., regular exercise, a healthy diet, or quitting smoking).
- Medications
- Procedures or surgeries (e.g., angioplasty or bypass surgery).
A specialist will tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs, focusing on improving blood flow, reducing the risk of complications, and managing symptoms. Discuss with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your condition.
Can Atherosclerosis Be Prevented?
While it may not always be possible to prevent atherosclerosis, you can reduce your risk by:
- Avoiding tobacco use in all forms, including smoking, vaping, and chewing tobacco.
- Adopting a heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet.
- Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, five or more days a week.
- Maintaining a healthy weight appropriate for your body.
What to Expect If You Have Atherosclerosis?
Arteriosclerosis can lead to life-threatening complications. However, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, it is possible to manage the condition and live a long, healthy life. Speak with your healthcare provider to learn more about what to expect. They understand your medical history and can offer personalized advice.
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