Atherosclerosis is a condition where fatty deposits (plaques) build up in the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. This process happens over time and is influenced by cholesterol levels, inflammation, and other risk factors.

How Atherosclerosis Develops

The condition starts when the inner lining of the arteries (endothelium) gets damaged. This damage can be caused by:

• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes

Once the artery is damaged, LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) enters the artery walls and becomes oxidized. The immune system sees this as a problem and sends white blood cells (macrophages) to help. These cells absorb the cholesterol and turn into foam cells, which create fatty deposits called plaques. Over time, the plaques grow, making the arteries narrow and stiff.

Inflammation and Cholesterol in Atherosclerosis

Inflammation plays a big role in plaque formation. As plaques grow, they trigger the release of inflammatory chemicals that attract more immune cells, worsening the condition. If a plaque becomes unstable and ruptures, it can cause a blood clot, leading to a heart attack or stroke.

Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis

Some risk factors can be controlled, while others cannot:

• Controllable factors: High cholesterol, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, lack of exercise, and unhealthy diet.
• Uncontrollable factors: Age, genetics, and being male.

How to Prevent and Treat Atherosclerosis

To lower the risk of atherosclerosis, people should:

• Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid smoking
• Manage conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes

Medications that help include:

• Statins: Lower LDL cholesterol and reduce inflammation.
• PCSK9 inhibitors: Help lower cholesterol further in high-risk patients.
• Blood thinners (aspirin, P2Y12 inhibitors): Prevent clots from forming.

When Atherosclerosis Becomes an Emergency

If a plaque ruptures, it can cause a sudden blockage in an artery. This can lead to:

• Heart attack (if it blocks an artery in the heart)
• Stroke (if it blocks an artery in the brain)

Treatments to restore blood flow include:

• Angioplasty and stenting: A small tube is inserted into the blocked artery to keep it open.
• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG): Surgery that creates a new path for blood to flow around a blockage.

Conclusion

Atherosclerosis is a serious condition, but it can be managed and even prevented with healthy lifestyle choices and the right medications. Early detection and treatment are key to reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.APA