Atherosclerosis (blocked arteries) can affect any artery in the body, including arteries in the heart, brain, arms, legs, pelvis, and kidneys. As a result, different diseases may develop based on which arteries are affected.

We often hear about blocked arteries in the heart and brain, but why don’t we hear more about blockages in other parts of the body?

Atherosclerosis (blocked arteries) is a disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other parts of your body. Atherosclerosis Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows your arteries. This limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body. In severe cases, the flow of blood can be completely blocked. Atherosclerosis can affect any artery in the body, including arteries in the heart, brain, arms, legs, pelvis, and kidneys… and the outcome depends on where the affected artery is located. Some of the important sites of atherosclerosis include:

  • The coronary arteries which supply blood to the heart – A build-up up of plaque in these coronary arteries can reduce the flow of blood to the muscles of the heart. This can cause pain or discomfort (called angina) in the chest, shoulders, neck, jaw or arms. A heart attack may occur if a coronary artery becomes completely blocked due to a blood clot.
  • The carotid arteries on either side of your neck that supply blood and oxygen to your brain – Narrowing or blockage of these arteries can lead to a stroke. Symptoms of a stroke can include sudden weakness, paralysis, confusion, difficulty speaking, or loss of consciousness.
  • The peripheral arteries which supply blood to your arms, legs, and pelvis – Narrowing or blockage of these major blood vessels is called peripheral arterial disease and can result in numbness or pain in the limbs, including pain in the legs when walking or climbing stairs (called claudication). Reduced blood flow to the toes, feet, and legs increases the risk of poorly healing wounds and infections in these areas. If blood flow is severely restricted, tissues in the lower parts of the limbs may rot and die (called gangrene) and need to be amputated.

  • The renal arteries which supply your kidneys with blood – If these arteries become narrowed or blocked, you may develop kidney disease, which means your body can’t effectively get rid of wastes and excess fluid. Symptoms of kidney disease can include changes in urination, loss of appetite, feeling sick, difficulty concentrating, and swollen hands or feet.

The cause of atherosclerosis isn't known. However, certain traits, conditions, or habits may raise your risk for the disease. These conditions are known as risk factors such as: High blood pressure (hypertension) Cigarette smoking Diabetes (elevated blood sugar), Obesity or Excess body weight, Physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyle, a family history of early heart disease.

That means a healthy diet, exercise, and no smoking. Unless your atherosclerosis is severe, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes as the first line of treatment. These changes won't remove blockages, though; plaques may slow or stop growing. They may even shrink slightly with aggressive treatment. Lifestyle changes include:

  • eating a healthy diet that’s low in saturated fat and cholesterol
  • avoiding fatty foods
  • adding fish to your diet twice per week
  • exercising for 30 to 60 minutes per day, six days per week
  • quitting smoking if you’re a smoker
  • losing weight if you’re overweight or obese
  • managing stress
  • treating conditions associated with atherosclerosis, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes

Taking prescribed drugs for high cholesterol and high blood pressure will slow and may even halt atherosclerosis and medical procedures. These treatments, along with ongoing medical care, can help you live a healthier life.

Written by Dr. Bui Thi Xuan Nga - CardiologyCity International Hospital

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