Atherosclerosis is a disease that involves the gradual buildup of plaque inside the walls of arteries. Plaque is made up of various substances such as cholesterol, fat, and cellular waste products. As plaque accumulates, it begins to harden and narrow the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. This can lead to a condition known as coronary artery disease (CAD), which can cause chest pain, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular problems.
Atherosclerosis can also occur in other arteries throughout the body, including those that supply blood to the brain, legs, and kidneys. This can cause a range of health problems, such as stroke, peripheral artery disease, and kidney damage.
In the healthcare industry, atherosclerosis is an important area of concern as it is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Healthcare providers use various approaches to manage and treat this condition, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and surgical interventions. Early detection and timely intervention can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications associated with atherosclerosis. Some of the commonly used diagnostic tests include coronary angiography, carotid artery ultrasound, and ankle-brachial index (ABI).
Moreover, healthcare providers also play a critical role in educating the public on risk factors for atherosclerosis, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, obesity, diabetes, and physical inactivity. By raising awareness and promoting preventive strategies, healthcare professionals can help reduce the overall burden of atherosclerosis on individuals and society as a whole.
Atherosclerosis
Health Care Term
Atherosclerosis is a disease that involves the gradual buildup of plaque inside the walls of arteries. Plaque is made up of various substances such as cholesterol, fat, and cellular waste products. As plaque accumulates, it begins to harden and narrow the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. This can lead to a condition known as coronary artery disease (CAD), which can cause chest pain, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular problems.
Atherosclerosis can also occur in other arteries throughout the body, including those that supply blood to the brain, legs, and kidneys. This can cause a range of health problems, such as stroke, peripheral artery disease, and kidney damage.
In the healthcare industry, atherosclerosis is an important area of concern as it is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Healthcare providers use various approaches to manage and treat this condition, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and surgical interventions. Early detection and timely intervention can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications associated with atherosclerosis. Some of the commonly used diagnostic tests include coronary angiography, carotid artery ultrasound, and ankle-brachial index (ABI).
Moreover, healthcare providers also play a critical role in educating the public on risk factors for atherosclerosis, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, obesity, diabetes, and physical inactivity. By raising awareness and promoting preventive strategies, healthcare professionals can help reduce the overall burden of atherosclerosis on individuals and society as a whole.