Therefore, recognizing the warning signs of atherosclerosis is essential, especially for people with high risk factors.
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which cholesterol plaques build up in the artery walls. Over time, the cholesterol plaques become thicker, causing the arteries to harden, according to the health website Healthline (USA).
Atherosclerosis blocks blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the heart, causing angina.
The main component of these plaques is cholesterol, in addition to calcium and some other substances. Plaques will narrow the blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the body's important organs such as the heart, brain and legs.
Common symptoms warning of atherosclerosis include:
Chest pain
Chest pain, or angina, is one of the most common symptoms of atherosclerosis. When arteries become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup, it reduces blood flow to the heart. This results in chest pain, sometimes called angina.
These pains are especially evident during physical activity or emotional stress. However, they soon disappear when resting. In addition, the patient may also experience some other symptoms that accompany chest pain such as rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath.
Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath is another common symptom of atherosclerosis, especially in people with coronary artery disease. Reduced blood flow to the heart due to plaque buildup can cause shortness of breath, whether during physical activity or at rest.
This symptom will be accompanied by chest pain, fatigue or a feeling of lightheadedness. If the patient feels sudden, severe chest pain, they need to be taken to the hospital immediately because it could be a heart attack or pulmonary embolism.
Numbness in legs
Numbness or weakness in the legs is caused by plaque buildup in the artery walls that disrupts blood flow to the legs. This is a hallmark symptom of atherosclerosis and peripheral artery disease. Patients often have other unpleasant symptoms such as leg pain, cramps, and muscle fatigue.
To reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, health experts recommend not smoking, staying away from alcohol, exercising regularly, and having a balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and grains, according to Healthline .
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