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Writer's pictureRaneen Awada
Dec 11, 20243 min read

What Are the Underlying Causes of Atherosclerosis and How Can It Be Prevented?


What is Atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis consists of the hardening of the arteries, often due to gradual plaque build-up. Plaque is mainly built up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances flowing in the blood. Plaque build-up in the arteries poses a threat to one's health due to its potential in restricting blood flow to the heart. Atherosclerosis does not occur suddenly. Instead, it is caused through plaque building up slowly in someone's arteries throughout the course of their life.


Arteries are blood vessels that deliver oxygenated blood to the the tissues and organs of the body. As plaque continues to build up in an artery, the walls of the vessel begin to get thicker and harden. As a result, the lumen (opening of the artery) gets smaller and decreases the ability for blood to flow through the vessel and back into the heart, organs, and other tissues in the body.


Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a heart disease that results from the hardening of the heart arteries, however, other arteries in the body can be affected by atherosclerosis and which causes different diseases.


Causes of Atherosclerosis: Direct and Underlying Factors

As mentioned previously, it is believed the general cause of atherosclerosis is a gradual buildup of plaque inside the arteries. However, researchers don't exactly know the direct cause of it. Instead, they suggest underlying causes or factors that may contribute to atherosclerosis. These factors may include:

  • High cholesterol

  • Tobacco use

  • High blood pressure

  • Diabetes

  • Obesity

  • Physical Inactivity

  • Inflammatory diseases


These factors largely put someone at risk for developing atherosclerosis during their lifetime. It is also important to recognize the role of age in developing atherosclerosis since an older person is likely to have more plaque build-up than a younger person.


What Can Atherosclerosis Lead To?

Atherosclerosis interferes with blood flow to areas of the body, leaving room for blood clots to form. This can limit blood flow to various parts of the body which can allow for possible complications.


These complications may include:

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

  • Carotid Artery Disease

  • Heart attack

  • Heart failure

  • Arrhythmia

  • Stroke


Common Symptoms of Atherosclerosis

As plaque initially builds up, there are no symptoms for atherosclerosis. However, once the body needs more oxygen that it can't adequately provide (due to artery blockage), symptoms may seem more noticeable. The symptoms experience depend on the type of arteries affected and how much blood flow is being restricted.


  • Coronary artery disease- Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, and a racing or pounding heart rate.

  • Carotid artery disease- A common symptom is a bruit, which is a whooshing sound that is heard by a healthcare professional when using a stethoscope.

  • Peripheral artery disease- Pain, aching, a heavy feeling, or cramping in the legs when walking or climbing stairs can be felt.


How can Atherosclerosis be Treated?

Procedures

Angioplasty: A procedure to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels using a small balloon or stent. The tiny balloon forces plaque against the walls of the artery so blood can get through.

Atherectomy: A procedure that remove plaque buildup from arteries using a catheter with a cutting device or laser.

Carotid Endarterectomy: A surgical procedure to remove plaque from the carotid arteries to help blood flow to the brain and reduce the risk of stroke.

Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): A surgical procedure that uses a grafted blood vessel to create a path or blood to go around blocked coronary arteries and improve blood flow to the heart.


Lifestyle changes

  • Avoiding smoking and vaping (general use of tobacco products)

  • Eating healthy

  • Incorporating physical activity into daily routines


Prevention of Atherosclerosis

Complete prevention of atherosclerosis may not be entirely preventable, but lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk and effects of the disease. The following are steps that can be taken to try preventing atherosclerosis:


  • Choose foods that are low in unhealthy fats, salt, sugar, and cholesterol.

  • Stay active by incorporating regular exercise, such as walking. Aim for 30 minutes most days.

  • Maintain a healthy weight; consult your doctor to determine your ideal range.

  • Take control of chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

  • Avoid all tobacco products to protect your heart and overall health.

  • Schedule a yearly health checkup.


Sources


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