ateroscleroza

Atherosclerosis is a common, chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of plaque within the walls of arteries. This plaque is composed of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. As plaque accumulates, the arteries become narrowed and hardened, a process known as hardening of the arteries. This narrowing restricts blood flow to vital organs and tissues.

The exact cause of atherosclerosis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a complex process involving damage to the inner lining of the artery walls. This damage can be caused by various risk factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Genetic factors also play a role.

Symptoms of atherosclerosis depend on which arteries are affected and the severity of the narrowing. In many cases, atherosclerosis develops gradually over years without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can include chest pain (angina) if the coronary arteries are affected, leg pain or cramping during exercise (claudication) if peripheral arteries are narrowed, or stroke symptoms if arteries supplying the brain are involved.

Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Diagnosis often involves a physical examination, blood tests to check cholesterol and sugar levels, and imaging tests like ultrasound, angiography, or CT scans to visualize the extent of plaque buildup and arterial narrowing. Treatment focuses on lifestyle modifications, medications to manage risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol, and in some cases, surgical procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery to restore blood flow.