Coronary Artery Disease: When atherosclerosis narrows the arteries supplying blood to the heart, it precipitates coronary artery disease (CAD). This condition can lead to angina (chest pain), myocardial infarction (heart attack), or heart failure. The insidious nature of atherosclerosis means that it can progress silently over many years, causing damage before symptoms become apparent.
Symptoms of Atherosclerosis in Heart Arteries:
Chest Pain or Pressure: Commonly referred to as angina, this discomfort often arises during physical exertion or emotional stress due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
Difficulty Breathing: As the heart struggles with inadequate blood supply, individuals may experience shortness of breath, particularly during exertion or when lying flat.
Vomiting: In severe cases, atherosclerosis affecting heart arteries can lead to nausea and vomiting, particularly if it culminates in a heart attack.
Coughing: Persistent coughing may occur as a result of fluid buildup in the lungs due to heart failure, an outcome of advanced coronary artery disease.
Advances in Treatment and Prevention: Over recent years, advances in medical technology have enhanced our ability to diagnose and treat atherosclerosis. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes, regular exercise, and smoking cessation, play a pivotal role in preventing its progression. Moreover, novel medications and interventions such as angioplasty and stenting offer effective strategies to manage coronary artery disease and its complications.
Understanding the insidious nature of atherosclerosis empowers individuals to adopt proactive measures to safeguard heart health, underscoring the importance of early detection and intervention in mitigating its potentially devastating consequences.
Atherosclerosis: Understanding its Impact on Heart Arteries
