Key Information About Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is the narrowing of arteries because of plaque buildup. Plaque is usually made up of cholesterol, fatty substances, cellular waste products, calcium and fibrin.

Atherosclerosis is a slow, progressive disease that may start as early as childhood. However, it can progress rapidly.

Hypertension, obesity, inflammation due to conditions like lupus, and high cholesterol levels are known to cause atherosclerosis.

A new study in experimental mice indicates that a high-fat diet causes atherosclerosis.

This study by researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) was published in July 2021 in JACC Basic To Translational Science.

Pain in the upper body, shortness of breath, pressure in the upper body, and irregular heartbeat are some symptoms of atherosclerosis.

Diagnosis is based upon a physical examination, ECG, and exercise stress test, among others.

Cholesterol-lowering statins keep atherosclerosis from getting worse. They pull cholesterol out of artery-clogging plaque.

An antiplatelet medication such as aspirin or clopidogrel (Plavix) may be prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Do not use tobacco products. Do yoga daily. Asanas (postures) like Parsva Sukhasana (easy side stretch) keep the arteries healthy.

Meditate to beat stress. Get regular checkups. Have your healthcare provider check your blood pressure and cholesterol.

Atherosclerosis cannot be reversed once it has occurred. However, lifestyle changes and treatment of high cholesterol levels slow the process from becoming worse.

In a research study, scientists at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology show that certain T lymphocytes that start out trying to fight the disease can end up increasing inflammation and making atherosclerosis cases even worse.