Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Diseases
Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease and its Risk Factors
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a condition in which plaque builds up inside the arteries reducing blood flow due to a narrowing of the arteries. This narrowing can cause the blood pressure inside the arteries to become too high, increasing the risk of a stroke or heart attack. The plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances that accumulate in the inner walls of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of CVD including heart attack and stroke.
Risk factors for CVD include:
- Age
- Family history of CVD
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
Certain lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can help reduce CVD risk and also lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It is also important to control diabetes, manage stress, and get regular medical checkups.
Untreated CVD can lead to serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, or kidney damage. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery. Steps should be taken to reduce the risk of CVD and its complications, and to ensure that it is properly treated.