What Is Atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is a disease in which fatty deposits called plaque build up inside the arteries. Over time, plaque narrows and hardens the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart, brain, and other organs. Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.
The condition often develops slowly over many years and may not cause symptoms until an artery becomes severely narrowed or blocked.
Why Atherosclerosis Matters
Reduced blood flow can damage vital organs and increase the risk of life-threatening cardiovascular events. Early diagnosis and treatment help reduce complications and improve long-term health.
Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Unhealthy diet
- Older age
- Family history of heart disease
Common Symptoms
Symptoms depend on which arteries are affected and may include:
- Chest pain (angina)
- Leg pain during walking (claudication)
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness or numbness
- Slow-healing wounds
- Vision changes
- Stroke symptoms
How Is Atherosclerosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis may include cholesterol testing, blood pressure measurements, electrocardiograms (ECGs), stress tests, ultrasound, CT angiography, MR angiography, coronary angiography, and ankle-brachial index (ABI) testing.
How Is Atherosclerosis Treated?
Treatment typically includes lifestyle changes, cholesterol-lowering medications, blood pressure control, diabetes management, antiplatelet medications, smoking cessation, regular exercise, and procedures such as angioplasty, stent placement, or bypass surgery when needed.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals assist individuals by supporting medication adherence, encouraging healthy eating, promoting safe physical activity, monitoring blood pressure, reinforcing follow-up care, and recognizing symptoms that require prompt medical attention.
Home Care Tip
Heart-healthy habits practiced consistently over time are one of the most effective ways to slow the progression of atherosclerosis and reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Frequently Asked Questions About Atherosclerosis
Can atherosclerosis develop without symptoms?
Yes. Many people have no symptoms until blood flow becomes significantly restricted or a cardiovascular event occurs.
Can lifestyle changes really make a difference?
Yes. Healthy eating, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol are key parts of treatment.
Can home care help someone with atherosclerosis?
Yes. Home care professionals provide education, medication support, lifestyle guidance, symptom monitoring, and assistance with managing chronic cardiovascular conditions.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
Call emergency medical services immediately if you experience chest pain, sudden weakness, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, severe shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart attack or stroke.