Atherogenesis is the process of plaque formation in arteries, which can lead to health complications such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. It begins in adolescence with the formation of fat streaks and can be identified during routine health screenings. Treatment options are available, but prevention through a balanced diet, exercise, and monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol levels is the best approach.
Atherogenesis is a process that leads to the formation of plaques made up of fatty materials. These plaques line the arteries, gradually narrowing them. In some patients, atherogenesis can lead to health complications due to their compromised arteries. These problems can include high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. There are a number of treatment options available to someone who has developed atheroma, the technical term for the fatty plaques created by this process.
The process of atherogenesis already begins in adolescence, with the formation of fat streaks. The fatty steaks are found under the endothelium that lines the inside of the arteries. Over time, deposits can form on the fatty streaks, gradually causing the artery to narrow. Atherosclerosis, in which such deposits are clearly present on the arteries, is sometimes referred to as “clogged arteries,” a rather apt descriptor for what happens over time as atheromas accumulate.
Over time, arteries can harden from damage caused by atheromas. The hardening and scarring narrow the arteries and also put them at risk for rupture and other problems. Patients can be identified as being at risk for plaques during routine health screenings in which risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are identified by a physician.
If a plaque ruptures, it triggers a coagulation cascade in an attempt to repair the ruptured artery wall. This can lead to complete blockage, resulting in a myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack. This can happen multiple times before the patient realizes what is happening, with heart problems presenting as chest pain or simply not being identified as damage to the heart and arteries continues. In cases of severe damage, treatment options usually require surgery to address the damage.
Exactly why atheromas form is somewhat unclear. Diet appears to play a role, but eating fatty foods doesn’t necessarily mean someone will develop plaques. The types of fat consumed also appear to be important; fats that add to bad cholesterol tend to contribute to atherogenesis because plaques often contain cholesterol, while fats that raise good cholesterol levels may actually have a preventative effect.
The best way to deal with atherogenesis is to avoid it. Eating a balanced diet, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and exercising appear to help reduce the risk. If this condition is identified, patients should talk to their doctors about treatment options; early intervention increases the chance of a successful outcome.
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