At Cross County Cardiology, we’re committed to keeping you informed about your heart health. Today, we’re diving into an important topic: atherosclerosis. Often referred to as the "hardening of the arteries," this condition can sneak up on you, but with the right knowledge and proactive steps, you can manage it and reduce your risks.
What Is Atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is a gradual process where plaque—a mix of cholesterol, fatty substances, and cellular waste—builds up inside your arteries. Over time, this plaque can narrow or block your arteries, limiting blood flow to your heart and other parts of your body. If left unchecked, this can lead to serious complications, including heart attacks and strokes.
How Does It Happen?
The process of atherosclerosis involves your body’s immune system. Here’s how it works:
- Risk factors like high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, or high blood pressure cause damage to your artery walls.
- Cholesterol enters the artery walls, triggering your immune system to react as if fighting an infection.
- This response leads to even more plaque build-up, narrowing your arteries and making it harder for blood to flow.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
The statistics around atherosclerosis are a wake-up call.
- 85.6 million Americans live with cardiovascular disease or have experienced a stroke.
- 98.6 million American adults have high cholesterol, which puts them at risk for atherosclerosis.
Early Detection Is Key
You don’t have to wait for symptoms to take action. Here’s how to stay on top of your heart health:
- Monitor your cholesterol levels regularly.
- Consider medications like statins, which can help manage high cholesterol.
- Make lifestyle changes: Exercise, eat a heart-healthy diet, and avoid smoking.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s time to see a doctor:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
How Is Atherosclerosis Diagnosed?
There are several ways your doctor can confirm whether you have atherosclerosis:
- Stress testing: This checks how well your heart performs under physical stress.
- Cardiac catheterization: This test provides a detailed look at how well your arteries are functioning.
Take Action for Your Heart Health
Fighting atherosclerosis is about being proactive. Here’s what you can do:
- Stay informed and recognize the signs.
- Follow your doctor’s advice and take prescribed medications.
- Stick to a heart-healthy lifestyle—it’s your best defense.
At Cross County Cardiology, we’re here to support you in managing atherosclerosis and other heart conditions. Prevention is always better than cure, and it starts with staying educated.
Ready to take control of your heart health? We’re here to help every step of the way.
