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Hardened arteries, or atherosclerosis, are caused by plaque buildup on artery walls, which can lead to poor circulation and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, stress, and genetics can all contribute to the condition. Prevention includes avoiding smoking, getting adequate rest and exercise, eating a healthy diet, and managing underlying conditions.
Hardened arteries, also called atherosclerosis, are caused by plaque buildup on artery walls. Such plaques may consist of a variety of substances, including cholesterol. Usually the condition develops over a period of many years. During this time, the affected arteries become thickened and irregular, resulting in a narrowing of the internal arterial channels and decreased blood flow.
Identifying a specific factor that stimulates hardening of the arteries can be difficult. However, there are several things that contribute to the development of hardened arteries. High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking are known to be causative factors for the condition. It can also be caused or worsened by obesity and stress. Genetics may also be involved in the development of this condition.
When a person’s arteries harden, deposits begin to build up on the affected artery walls. This buildup can cause cells to make extra substances in the arteries. As a result, these substances can form additional layers, further blocking the arteries.
Often the larger arteries and the coronary arteries are affected by this condition. Over time, hardened arteries can lead to poor circulation. A person with this condition may also be at increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Symptoms related to hardened arteries include leg pain, high blood pressure, kidney failure, aortic aneurysm, blood clots, angina, and heart attack. Individuals frequently develop arterial hardness without experiencing any obvious symptoms until the condition reaches advanced stages. Therefore, it is wise to know your family’s medical history and be particularly alert for symptoms if the condition runs in your family.
Typically, people do not develop symptoms or complications of hardened arteries until they are at least middle-aged. However, some people have been diagnosed with the condition in their twenties. As such, adults of all ages should be aware of the condition, its effects, and related symptoms.
An important part of diagnosing this condition involves the patient’s medical history. Certain non-invasive tests, such as ultrasound, can be used in the diagnosis. Angiography, an invasive test, may also be used. When arteries in the legs or brain are affected, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or angiograms may be ordered.
Prevention is key to avoiding the negative consequences of hardened arteries. To help lower your risk of developing this condition, avoid smoking, get adequate rest and exercise, and eat a healthy diet. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or cholesterol, follow your doctor’s advice to manage these conditions. Also, try to reduce the stress in your life, as stress can contribute to the development of not only arterial problems, but many other health conditions as well.
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