Complications Associated with Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis can lead to a variety of serious health complications, primarily due to the narrowing and hardening of arteries. Here are some key complications:
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Reduced blood flow to the heart can result in chest pain (angina) and heart attacks.
- Stroke: Atherosclerosis can block blood flow to the brain, leading to ischemic strokes.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Narrowed arteries in the legs can cause pain while walking and increase the risk of infections and ulcers.
- Aneurysms: Weakening of artery walls can cause bulges (aneurysms) that may rupture and cause life-threatening internal bleeding.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Reduced blood flow to the kidneys can impair their function and lead to kidney failure.
- Heart Failure: Chronic oxygen deprivation to the heart can weaken it over time, leading to heart failure.
- Metabolic Syndrome: This includes a cluster of conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels, increasing cardiovascular risk.
Prevention and management of atherosclerosis through lifestyle changes and medical treatment can significantly reduce the risk of these complications.