Unfortunately most patients with atherosclerosis don’t even know they have it until the atheroma causes a heart attack or a stroke. This makes it important to check with your primary health provider about being screened for the condition.
Q:WHAT IS AN ATHEROMA?
Ans:The build-up of plaque in arteries is called atheroma. Fat, cholesterol, calcium, connective tissue, and inflammatory cells are amongst the materials that deposit inside arteries and over time form an atherosclerotic plaque, which causes blockage in the artery.
Q:WHAT IS ATHEROSCLEROSIS?
Ans:Build up of plaque constricts the arteries and, in some cases, completely blocks it, which impedes the flow of oxygen-rich blood via that artery. This could lead to serious health issues such as a stroke or a heart attack. This process in which arteries are narrowed by atheromas is called Atherosclerosis.
Q:WHAT CAUSES ATHEROMA FORMATION?
Ans:Plaque build-up does not happen overnight. The exact cause is unknown. However, scientists believe that repeated damage to the endothelium or the inner lining of the arteries to be one of the main causes. Smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and high blood sugar levels can cause damage to the endothelium. Atheromatous Plaque build-up occurs gradually up to a point where there is vessel narrowing leading to symptoms.
Q:WHAT ARE THE COMPLICATIONS OF ATHEROSCLEROSIS?
Ans:Unchecked, undiagnosed Atherosclerosis can lead to medical emergencies such as heart attack, stroke, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, and peripheral artery disease.
Q:WHO IS AT RISK?
Ans:In terms of age, Atheroma related problems occurs more in people above the age of 45. Men are at more risk. Those with conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar are also more prone to developing atheromas. Obesity and lack of regular exercise are also risk factors. Those who have an unhealthy diet comprising high saturated fats, high sodium and high sugar are also in the risk category. Individuals with a family history of premature cardiovascular disease are also at high risk.
Q:WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF ATHEROMA?
Ans:Unfortunately, most patients with atherosclerosis don’t even know they have it until the atheroma causes a heart attack or a stroke. This makes it important to check with your primary health provider about being screened for atheromas should you fall in the high-risk category. Seek immediate medical attention if you have chest pain, breathlessness, numbness in your limbs, slurred speech and/or trouble walking.
Q:HOW IS ATHEROMA DIAGNOSED?
Ans:After taking a personal and family medical history of the patient the doctor will decide upon what tests need to be done. This may include a CT scan, Chest X-ray, ECG, ECHO and a Treadmill Test. In some cases, the patient may have to undergo an angiography which is a minimally invasive procedure through which arterial blocks are identified by introducing a contrast dye into the arteries via a catheter inserted in the groin or arm.
Q:DOES ATHEROSCLEROSIS CALL FOR SURGERY?
Ans:Treatment of atherosclerosis depends entirely on how much of the artery is blocked. The main goal of the treatment is to reduce clotting, slow-down plaque build-up and prevent atherosclerosis related complications. To meet this end the patient might be prescribed medication to keep blood pressure, glucose levels and cholesterol in check, and blood thinners to reduce the risk of blood clots. Surgical procedures are required only in cases of advanced atherosclerosis.
Q:WHAT ARE THE SURGICAL PROCEDURES FOR TREATING ADVANCED ATHEROSCLEROSIS?
Ans:To remove blocks or to open out constricted arteries in the heart Coronary Angioplasty may be performed. A Coronary Artery Bypass surgery is carried out to by-pass the clogged artery using another artery, thereby ensuring unimpeded blood flow. Carotid Endarterectomy is performed to remove plaque build up in the arteries in the neck to prevent a stroke.
Q:WHAT IS THE OUTLOOK FOR THOSE DIAGNOSED WITH ATHEROSCLEROSIS?
Ans:If the disease is diagnosed earlier, it can be treated successfully, and the patient can live a normal healthy life. However, being diagnosed with a block can cause fear and mental stress, and this can be managed by talking with a counsellor or joining a support group. In its advanced stage, surgical intervention can reduce fatality. But as in all situation’s prevention is better than cure. Making healthy choices in terms of diet, exercise and staying clear of smoking and alcohol can prevent heart disease and all the stress it brings.
CONSULTANT – CARDIOLOGY
MBBS, MD (MEDICINE), DM (CARDIOLOGY)