Atherosclerosis

In the United States, over 600,000 individuals die annually from heart disease. Atherosclerosis contributes to many of these deaths. This specific disease is a chronic inflammatory heart disease in which the arteries become narrowed and blocked with plaque. It is a common condition that can lead to coronary artery disease, heart attack, or stroke. If you are concerned that you may have atherosclerosis, seeking treatment from a healthcare professional is vital. There are many treatments available that can help improve your symptoms and help prevent further health problems.

You’ve probably heard about clogged arteries, but do you know about atherosclerosis, the silent process behind this condition? This gradual plaque buildup in your arteries can develop over years without noticeable symptoms, potentially leading to serious cardiovascular problems. Suppose you have risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease. In that case, it’s crucial to consider visiting our Atlanta heart doctors for a comprehensive evaluation.

Atherosclerosis occurs when fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances accumulate on the inner walls of your arteries. Think of it as rust slowly building up inside a pipe, narrowing the passage and making it harder for water to flow through. In this case, the “water” is your blood, and the restricted flow can seriously affect your heart and overall health.

You might wonder why atherosclerosis is so concerning, especially if you feel fine. The danger lies in its progressive nature and potential complications. As arteries narrow, they restrict blood flow to vital organs. This can lead to health threats, depending on which arteries are affected. Atherosclerosis in coronary arteries can cause chest pain (angina) or heart attacks. If it occurs in arteries leading to the brain, it can result in strokes. When leg arteries are affected, you might experience pain while walking (peripheral artery disease).

Atherosclerosis often develops silently over decades, which is why it’s sometimes called a “silent killer.” Early stages usually don’t cause symptoms. As the condition progresses, you might experience chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or leg pain during physical activity. However, for many people, the first sign of atherosclerosis is a heart attack or stroke.

By visiting our Atlanta heart doctors, you’re taking a proactive step towards protecting your cardiovascular health. Our cardiologists are experts at detecting and managing atherosclerosis. They can perform tests like cholesterol screenings, stress tests, or imaging studies to assess your arteries’ health and overall cardiovascular risk.

During your visit, you’ll receive personalized testing and treatment. Our doctors will evaluate your risk factors, including age, smoking, diet, physical inactivity, and certain medical conditions. They’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan, which might involve lifestyle changes, medications to control cholesterol and blood pressure, or, in some cases, procedures to improve blood flow in severely narrowed arteries.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Take charge of your health today by scheduling an appointment with our Atlanta heart doctors. While atherosclerosis is a chronic condition, its progression can be slowed or even halted with proper care. Early detection and management are key to preventing serious complications and maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Our team is here to help you keep your heart healthy for years.

You can continue reading about atherosclerosis testing and treatment on this page and learn more about CVG’s comprehensive cardiac care.