Atherosclerosis is a disease that affects large and medium-sized arteries, causing atheromatous plaques to form.
These plaques form from the accumulation of substances such as fats, complex carbohydrates, fatty tissue and other minerals. The progression of atherosclerosis can cause a reduction in blood flow, which can lead to a deterioration in heart function and the development of symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.
It is important to note that although atherosclerosis primarily affects arteries, veins can also be affected if they are used as arteries. Therefore, this disease can lead to serious and potentially fatal complications throughout the body.
Risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, unhealthy diet and lack of exercise can increase the chances of developing atherosclerosis. People with this disease may require treatments such as cholesterol-lowering drugs and surgical procedures such as coronary artery bypass surgery.
Atherosclerosis is a serious disease that can affect any artery in the body, causing atherosclerotic plaques that can lead to life-threatening complications. Prevention of this disease is crucial to maintaining optimal cardiovascular health and healthy lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing this disease.
Definition and Meaning
Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular disease characterized by the accumulation of fatty plaques (or atheromas) on the walls of arteries. These plaques can gradually harden and thicken the artery walls, reducing blood flow. Atherosclerosis can affect any artery in the body, but it is particularly prevalent in the coronary arteries of the heart, the carotid arteries of the neck and the peripheral arteries of the legs. Risk factors for atherosclerosis include age, smoking, a diet high in fat and cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and lack of exercise. Complications of atherosclerosis can include cardiovascular disease such as angina, myocardial infarction, stroke and peripheral artery disease.
Definition of atheroma
Atheroma is a reversible remodeling of the intima of large and medium caliber arteries. The arteries most affected by this disease are the aorta and its branches, the coronary arteries, the cerebral arteries and the arteries of the lower limbs. Atheromas are formed by segmental accumulation :
- of lipids,
- of complex carbohydrates,
- blood and blood products,
- of adipose tissue,
- calcareous deposits,
- other minerals.
Responsibility of atheroma
Atheroma is responsible for coronary artery disease, which is one of the leading causes of death in the world. It can also cause stroke, peripheral artery disease and kidney disease.
Veins and atheroma
Unlike arteries, veins do not develop atheroma because they are not subject to the same hemodynamic pressure. However, it is possible for veins to develop atheroma when they are surgically moved to serve as arteries, such as during coronary artery bypass surgery.