Good day, dear readers!

In this article we will look at such a disease of blood vessels as atherosclerosis, as well as its causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis, using traditional and folk remedies.

Atherosclerosis– a chronic disease of the arteries, the characteristic feature of which is the deposition of cholesterol and other fats on the inner walls of blood vessels. Subsequently, this “clogging” causes the walls of the vessels to thicken, the lumen to decrease, their elasticity to be lost, resulting in blockages of the vessels. Due to the deformation of blood vessels, there is a load on the heart, because it needs more effort to pump blood.

The result of atherosclerosis are diseases such as, hypertonic disease(hypertension), necrosis, etc.

According to statistics for 2000, in Russia 800 people die from cardiovascular diseases per 100,000 people! At the same time, in France there are 182 people, in Japan 187. Scientists have recognized that the reason for this situation is nutrition and lifestyle. Of course, in the current 2016, when the spread of GMO products has gained incredible momentum, and truly high-quality food products cost such an amount that most people cannot afford to buy them, mortality continues to rise.

In this regard, it has been established that middle-aged and elderly people are most often susceptible to atherosclerosis, although there have been cases where this disease was identified in children.

ICD

ICD-10: I70
ICD-9: 440

The development of atherosclerosis begins from the human circulatory system. U healthy person, blood circulating in blood vessels, delivers oxygen and nutrients to all organs and tissues. With a normal diet, cholesterol is also present in the blood.

Cholesterol- an organic compound - a natural fatty (lipophilic) alcohol that is found in the cell membranes of the body. Cholesterol plays an important role in protecting cell membranes and is also necessary for the production, steroid hormones(cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, etc.), bile acids, as well as the normal functioning of the immune and nervous systems.

Cholesterol is insoluble in water, and accordingly, it cannot independently enter the tissues of the body, therefore, the function of delivering it through the blood to all organs is performed by transporter proteins (apolipoproteins), which are found in complex compounds - cholesterol with other compounds.

Apolipoproteins are divided into 4 groups:

- high molecular weight (HDL, HDL (lipoproteins) high density))
- low molecular weight (LDL, LDL, (low density lipoproteins))
- very low molecular weight (VLDL, VLDL, very low density lipoproteins);
- chylomicrons.

Depending on the “address” (body part) of delivery, different of these apolipoproteins perform the function. LDL, VLDL and chylomicrons combine with cholesterol and deliver it to peripheral tissues. But LDL (low-density lipoproteins) are poorly soluble and tend to precipitate. Due to this, cholesterol combined with LDL is called “bad” cholesterol.

Problems begin when an excess of cholesterol in the body, together with LDL, precipitates, which sticks to the walls of blood vessels and forms atherosclerotic plaques.

Here I would also like to note that low-density lipoproteins are counteracted by high-density lipoproteins (HDL), which protect the walls of blood vessels from their negative influence, but HDL, unfortunately, is 2 times less.

Atherosclerotic plaques– formations that consist of cholesterol, other fats, low-density lipoproteins and. They form under the endothelium (the inner surface of blood vessels), in places where it is damaged.

Under the endothelium (between the outer and inner walls of the vessel), i.e. in the thickness of the vessels, various substances are synthesized that regulate blood clotting, as well as the health of the vessels themselves.
So, as the atherosclerotic plaque grows, the lumen of the vessel narrows, and there is a risk of its rupture, from where a blood clot enters the vessel.

Thrombus- an accumulation of cells, mainly platelets and blood proteins. To put it simply, a thrombus is a clot of coagulated blood that occurs in places where blood vessels are damaged.

A thrombus aggravates the situation by the fact that it further narrows the lumen of the vessel, but the main danger from it is that a piece can come off from it, which, moving further along the vessels, reaches a place where the diameter of the lumen of the vessel is less than the thrombus. Further, in this place a blockage of the vessel occurs, and the tissues and organs “cut off” from the blood supply begin to die.

Of course, the process of development of atherosclerosis described above is a simplified form of explanation, but I hope that I was able to describe the overall picture.

Causes of atherosclerosis

At the moment, the causes of atherosclerosis continue to be studied. Let's highlight the most well-known reasons:

- endothelial dysfunction;
— damage to the endothelium by viruses (herpes virus, cytomegalovirus, etc.);
- damage to the vascular wall by chlamydia, mainly Chlamydia pneumoniae;
- abnormalities in the functioning of leukocytes and macrophages;
- primary accumulation of a large number of lipoproteins in the thickness of the blood vessel;
— deviations in the functioning of the antioxidant system;
- increase with age in the level of adrenocorticotropic and gonadotropic hormones, which leads to an imbalance of hormones needed to regulate cholesterol.

Among the factors that provoke the development of atherosclerosis are:

— bad habits (drinking alcohol, smoking);
— hypertension (): blood pressure level from 140/90 mm Hg. Art.;
- hyperlipoproteinemia;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- unhealthy diet;
— ;
— ;
— ;
- heredity;
— ;
- homocysteinuria;
- hyperfibrinogenemia;
- postmenopause;
- age;
- metabolic disorders.

Symptoms of atherosclerosis largely depend on the location where it develops, as well as the vessel affected. Let's consider the most popular sites of injury and the accompanying signs of this disease.

Atherosclerosis of the heart

Coronary atherosclerosis. Occurs as a result of damage to atherosclerotic plaques coronary vessels. Based on this, the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the heart (myocardium) decreases.

Symptoms of coronary atherosclerosis:

Atherosclerosis of the aorta of the heart. It occurs as a result of damage to the main vessel of the heart, the aorta, by atherosclerotic plaques.

Symptoms of atherosclerosis of the aorta of the heart:

- burning periodic pain in the area chest;
- increase in systolic (upper);
- periodic dizziness;
- premature aging, graying;
- difficulty swallowing food;
- increased hair growth in ears Oh;
- appearance of wen on the face.

Atherosclerosis of the abdominal region

Atherosclerosis of the abdominal region (cardiac aorta). Occurs as a result of damage to atherosclerotic plaques of the aorta in the abdominal area.

Symptoms of atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta

Symptoms of cerebral atherosclerosis

Conditionally acceptable products food (minimum quantity): vegetable oil (30-40 g/day), beef and lamb (no more than 90-150 g), eggs (no more than 2 pieces per week), whole milk, white bread, pasta.

What not to eat if you have atherosclerosis: butter, hard margarine, animal fat, caviar, egg yolks, brains, kidneys, liver, heart, tongue, meat with visible fat, sausages, ham, frankfurters, duck, goose, sour cream, full-fat milk, cream, full-fat cottage cheese, full-fat cheeses , curd cheeses, processed cheeses, ice cream, vegetables (cooked in fat), fruits (candied, sweetened), chocolate, candies, marmalade, marshmallows, jam and preserves.

For the treatment of atherosclerosis, M.I. Pevzner developed a special dietary food — .

In addition, it is necessary to minimize the use of:

- saturated fatty acid;
— ;
- table salt - no more than 8 g per day.

Medicines for atherosclerosis

Medicines for atherosclerosis are used for:

— correction of blood pressure levels;
— control of diabetes mellitus;
— correction of metabolic syndrome;
— normalization of the lipid spectrum.

Depending on the above goals, they are divided into 4 main groups:

1. Drugs that block the absorption of cholesterol by the walls of blood vessels and organs.
2. Drugs that reduce the synthesis of cholesterol and triglycerides in the liver, as well as their concentration in the blood.
3. Drugs that increase the breakdown and excretion of atherogenic lipids and lipoproteins from the body.
4. Additional drugs.

Group 1: drugs that block the absorption of cholesterol by the walls of blood vessels and organs

IA - anion exchange resins: Gemfibrozil, Cholestyramine. This group of drugs absorb cholesterol and are then removed from the body along with it. The disadvantage is that vitamins and other medications are absorbed along with cholesterol.

IB – plant sorbents:"Guarem", "β-sitosterol". This group of drugs interferes with the absorption of cholesterol by the intestine.

Group 1 drugs can cause dyspepsia.

Group 2: drugs that block the absorption of cholesterol by the walls of blood vessels and organs

IIA (statins): lovastatin (Apexstatin, Mevacor, Medostatin), simvastatin (Vasilip, Zocor, Simvor), fluvastatin (Leskol), pravastatin (Lipostat, Pravachol), atorvastatin (Liprimar ", "Torvacard"), rosuvastatin ("Crestor"). Contraindications: should not be taken by pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, those with liver disease, or in combination with alcohol. Side effects: alopecia, myopathy, dyspepsia, rhabdomyolysis, impotence, hepatotoxicity.

IIB (fibrates): fenofibrate (Traykor), bezafibrate (Bezalip), ciprofibrate (Lipanor). Side effects: dyspepsia, myositis. Fenofibrates are the newest drugs, therefore, in the treatment of atherosclerosis, they are preferred. Fenofibrates are also used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

IIC: nicotinic acid (“Enduracin”). Side effects: skin itching, dyspepsia. Not recommended for use with diabetes.

IID: probucol (“Fenbutol”). Reduce sterol synthesis.

Group 3: drugs that increase the breakdown and excretion of atherogenic lipids and lipoproteins from the body

Unsaturated fatty acids: Linetol, Lipostabil, Omacor, Polyspamine, Thiogamma, Tribuspamin. Side effects: increased effect of antihyperglycemic drugs.

Group 4: additional drugs

Endotheliotropic drugs (nourish the endothelium): pyricarbate (“Anginin”, “Parmidin”), synthetic analogues prostacyclin (“Vasoprostan”, “Misoprostol”), E (tocopherol) and C (ascorbic acid).

Important! Before use folk remedies against atherosclerosis, be sure to consult your doctor!

In this material on our website (about cholesterol) you will learn about what it is - atherosclerosis? That is, what kind of disease is this, and what are its symptoms/signs? And also get acquainted with the causes of the disease and stages of development. You will learn about diagnostic methods, modern treatment methods and proper prevention (in order to reduce the risks of developing the disease).

Atherosclerosis – what is it and how is it dangerous for human health?

Atherosclerosis (from the Greek words: “athera” / gruel + “sclerosis” / hardening) is a chronic disease of blood vessels (occurring due to lipid metabolism disorders). As a result, right inside their walls, layers of “conditionally bad” are “superimposed” on each other. LDL cholesterol. Thus, forming atherosclerotic/cholesterol plaques. In addition, over time, the walls of the vessels thicken and harden (become inelastic), and also deform, narrowing the lumen as much as possible, up to complete blockage (i.e. obturation).

The gradual narrowing of the lumen inside the vessels is dangerous due to the development of a fairly wide range of serious ailments (such as ischemic disease heart disorders cerebral circulation etc.). Complete blockage is fraught with heart attack, stroke or gangrene (of the extremities).

Unfortunately, due to the many negative factors that the modern world “gives” us (stress, lack of exercise, poor diet and other problems), even men and women aged 35-40 can experience the symptoms of this disease (except for older people). years. At the same time, the first ones (i.e., men) are most at risk of developing, due to the lack of estrogens in their bodies. The so-called female sex hormones, which “by nature” cleanse the blood of excess “bad” cholesterol, and reliably protect against calcium imbalance (one of the key “building materials” of atheromatous plaques).

Symptoms (signs) of vascular atherosclerosis

There are 2 important points worth noting here. First: at the initial stage of development, as a rule, the symptoms of atherosclerosis are completely invisible (which, by the way, is the insidiousness of the disease). Second: the examples below may signal other diseases that only (!) your attending physician will accurately determine. Therefore, it is important not to “self-diagnose” yourself (based only on articles read on the Internet), and also not (!) to practice self-medication!

Problems with cerebral vessels

Main symptoms cerebral atherosclerosis(cerebral vessels), which can appear at virtually any age (but are most pronounced after 45 years):

• sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep (and equally after waking up) / frequent awakenings at night / occurrence of nightmares);
• headaches (“pressing”, “dull”, “aching” or in the form of “pins and needles”, especially immediately after physical or emotional stress / more often, “wandering”, that is, without clear localization);
• tinnitus (first appearing after overexertion, and then without any reason, combined with dizziness);
• fatigue and irritability (especially when performing everyday tasks that were previously easy);
• decreased memory and concentration (difficulty concentrating on new or routine tasks);
• some problems with the nervous system (anxiety, excessive excitability, apathy, suspicion, etc.);
• disturbances in vision, speech, breathing, or even eating (for example, a person began to choke frequently while eating);
• impaired coordination of movement (fear of open space / legs “give” when going outside);
• intolerance bright light and loud sounds.

Heart problems

Alarming symptoms of atherosclerosis thoracic aorta hearts include:

• “pressing”, “dull”, “aching” and “burning” pain in the chest area, especially radiating under the shoulder blade, to the left forearm (further to the hands and fingers);
• frequent sensations of “compression” in the chest (as if something heavy had been placed on it);
• pain occurs when breathing (and not only when inhaling, but also when exhaling);
• increased systolic (i.e. “upper”) blood pressure;
• paroxysmal angina / dizziness / shortness of breath;
• some physical manifestations (premature gray hair, wen on the face, light stripes on the iris of the eyes, abnormal hair growth in the ears, etc.).

The most common symptoms of atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta of the heart:

• bowel dysfunction (expressed in alternating constipation and diarrhea)
• frequent bloating (abnormal gas formation, increased flatulence);
• sudden weight loss (in a relatively short period of time);
• aching/wandering pain in the navel area (especially occurring after eating and disappearing after 2 hours);
• problems with sexual life (mostly in men).

Problems with blood vessels of the lower extremities

Supposed symptoms of obliterating atherosclerosis (vessels lower limbs):

• frequent sensations of “chilliness” or “numbness” of the limbs (from “pins and needles” to complete loss of sensitivity);
• too pale (“marbled”) skin on the legs (when even the smallest blood vessels are clearly visible);
• loss of fat layer on the thighs, legs and feet (especially, in combination with hair loss, in the above areas of the body);
• “intermittent claudication” associated with paroxysmal pain in the thighs, buttocks and calves;
• redness of the fingers (formation of wounds - trophic ulcers).
• at the very last stage - rapidly rapid tissue necrosis (or gangrene), requiring (!) emergency medical care (to avoid amputation of limbs).

Causes of atherosclerosis

The main causes of the development of atherosclerosis depend on many factors, of which the most negative is a violation of lipid metabolism. Depending on the proper treatment and a firm decision by the person himself to change his lifestyle, the destructive process can slow down. That is why modern doctors conditionally divide all the causes of this disease into 3 main groups:

• the first is irreparable (gender, age, family heredity);
• the second is correctable (bad habits, poor diet, physical inactivity, stress);
• and the third - partially removable (mostly, these are curable or already chronic diseases).

Floor

As practice has shown, in terms of the degree of risk of developing atherosclerosis, men are less “lucky” than women. Not only does the intensive development of this disease, as a rule, begin 10 years earlier in them (men - 45/50 years; women - 50/55 years), but also the incidence rates are 4 times higher. Unlike male and female sex hormones, estrogens are effective protection against changes in the level of lipid fractions. However, after menopause, women also become unprotected.

Age

It is a natural factor contributing to the development of vascular atherosclerosis. From birth, i.e. Even from infancy, the aging process of the body already begins. In adolescence (10-15 years), subject to an incorrect/inactive lifestyle (for example, sitting at the computer with “chips”), it gains momentum/accelerates. After 40-45 years it becomes noticeably noticeable: significant atherosclerotic changes in blood vessels occur. Of course, using drastic treatment measures - this process can be significantly slowed down.

Heredity

Some cardiologists believe that atherosclerosis runs in families / hereditary disease, which can occur among family members at the same age for several generations (even three/four). According to research results, it can even manifest itself in different vascular areas. There is a hypothesis that the most important “impetus” for the development of the disease is nervous tension(frequent stress).

The risk of developing the disease increases if, for example, your father or brother was diagnosed with heart disease before age 55. And also, for example, if your mother or sister had a heart attack before the age of 65.

Bad habits

The most dangerous habit is smoking, due to the negative effects of both nicotine itself and other (no less harmful) elements on the walls of blood vessels. Fake ones make the situation worse tobacco products(or without a filter), produced in “handicraft” conditions.

Smoking can damage blood vessels, i.e. “squeezing” them increases blood pressure, as well as the level of bad cholesterol in the blood plasma. It also does not allow sufficient number oxygen enters the tissues of the body.

As for alcoholic beverages, (!) their normalized amount (according to most scientists) is considered an excellent prevention of atherosclerosis. However, it should be borne in mind that this “thing” (pleasant, but dangerous) can lead to psychological dependence (alcoholism) or cirrhosis of the liver.

Sedentary lifestyle

Physical inactivity (mainly a “sedentary” lifestyle) seriously disrupts the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates and creates problems in blood circulation. Which ultimately leads not only to the development of atherosclerosis, but also obesity, diabetes, and other (no less dangerous) diseases.

“Office” professions (sitting at a desk all day), and then evening leisure exclusively on the couch or in front of the computer – these are insidious enemies that are slowly but surely “ruining” our body. Creating the illusion of comfort.

Stress (emotional stress)

Stressful situations at work (change of profession, dismissal), at home (divorce, conflicts in the family), financial problems, feelings of anxiety - these are serious reasons, increasing the risks of developing atherosclerosis (and a number of cardiovascular diseases).

It is definitely worth noting that prolonged exposure to stress (or deep depression) can increase risks by more than 2-3 times (and depending on gender or age, even more). The most serious “shocks” are frequent attacks of anger.

Know how to relax and unwind! If this doesn’t work, then consult a psychologist. As the Eastern sages said: “If you do not find time for rest and relaxation, then soon you will have to look for it for treatment.”

Postmenopause

As a result of endocrine changes, along with dangerous risks of developing diseases such as osteoporosis, obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and other diseases, the risks of atherosclerosis increase. The lack of estrogen leads to excessive deposition of “bad” cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels, forming plaques. At this stage of life, the following are strongly recommended: a set of physical exercises and a proper diet (to increase the level of “good” HDL cholesterol in the blood serum).

Poor nutrition

Fried/spicy foods. Foods high in animal fats (saturated and trans fats), sodium (salt) and sugar. Light snacks on the run with “fast foods” and “hot dogs”. The most common are the latter, since due to repeated heat treatment of the oil (to save money from unscrupulous sellers), carcinogens are formed that provoke the development of a wide range of cancer diseases.

Diseases and other disorders

• hypertension (arterial hypertension at or above 140/90 mm Hg or 130/80 mm Hg for diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease);
• obesity - a violation of the ratio of body weight and height (especially abdominal intra-abdominal obesity - around the waist);
• diabetes mellitus (increases risks up to 7 times compared to other options);
• dyslipidemia (hyperlipidemia/hyperlipoproteinemia);
• hypothyroidism (low levels of thyroid hormones);
• homocysteinuria (hereditary metabolic defects);
• hyperfibrinogenemia (high level of fibrinogen in the blood plasma / “thick blood”);
• infections (intoxication) – especially cytomegalovirus and chlamydial.
• metabolic disorders.

Other risk factors for atherosclerosis

• An increased content of C-reactive protein (CRP, English C-Reactives Protein - CRP), in itself, is a sign of inflammation in the body.
• High levels of triglycerides in the blood can also increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis, especially in women.
• Lipid profile disorders. Specifically, high LDL/LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and low HDL/HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol).
• Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep, lasting up to 10 seconds. Accompanied by loud snoring and frequent awakenings. This disease can increase the risks of high blood pressure, diabetes, and even heart attack or stroke.

Stages of development of atherosclerosis

Modern medicine distinguishes three main/sequential stages in the development of this disease.

Stage one: formation of lipid spots/streaks

The main feature of the initial stage of development of the disease is that the symptoms of atherosclerosis, as such, do not manifest themselves in humans. Due to the absence of any specific disorders, problems in blood circulation through the arteries are almost impossible to update.

At this stage the following events occur. Molecules of lipoprotein complexes begin to penetrate the damaged structures of the arterial walls (individual sections of the bloodstream, especially at the branches), forming a thin fatty layer. Visually (i.e. under a microscope), these changes can be observed in the form of elongated yellowish stripes.

At first, the protective enzymes of the artery walls try to restore their integrity and dissolve LDL/VLDL cholesterol, proteins and other elements of the lipoprotein complex, but over time the “safety mechanism” is depleted and the next stage begins (which will be discussed below). Accelerate the process: cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity.

Stage two: liposclerosis (layering and inflammation of lipid strips)

This stage is characterized by inflammation of lipid strips, due to the fact that the body begins to actively fight the problem. A focus is forming chronic inflammation, as a result of which the lipid/fat layer decomposes, and new connective tissue begins to grow in its place.

This is how atherosclerotic plaques are formed, still weak and liquid (easily dissolved), but already quite dangerous. Over time, this combination of fats, tissue fibers and calcium begins to increase in size, forming specific elevations above the walls of the arteries. Location of the lesion: under the endothelium (between the inner and outer walls of the vessels).

Accordingly, those areas of the walls of blood vessels (where cholesterol plaques are located / “attached”) quickly lose their elasticity and can crack, and this is fraught with the formation of blood clots. In addition, some fragments may come off from the still young and therefore loose surface of the plaques, posing a threat to vessels with small lumens (clogging them).

Stage three: atherocalcinosis (serious complications)

This is the final stage in the development of atherosclerosis, which is characterized by the manifestation of a wide range of complications associated with the formation/growth and deformation of fibrous plaques. It is during this period of time that clearly defined (local) symptoms of the disease begin to appear, usually associated with disruption of normal blood supply.

The most dangerous complications of atherosclerosis are the rupture of fibrous (advanced atherosclerotic) plaques, accompanied by a large release of blood, and the formation of blood clots that clog the lumens of blood vessels. In acute forms of blockage (occlusion), the risk of stroke increases significantly. When large arteries, especially those supplying the limbs, are blocked, necrosis (death) of tissue or gangrene occurs.

Diagnosis of atherosclerosis

Diagnosis of a wide range of diseases associated with the development of atherosclerosis includes:

• detailed questioning of the patient (history collection) to identify important symptoms disease (progressing in the heart, brain or limbs), as well as previously suffered diseases (heart attacks, strokes, kidney pathologies);
• initial examination of the patient: from appearance (for “aging”, changes in skin color, hair loss, etc.) to palpation of the arteries, listening to systolic murmurs or other special functional tests;
• taking tests for cholesterol content in venous blood (high and low density lipoproteins, triglycerides) to determine the atherogenicity coefficient (index) (and lipid balance in general;
• X-ray (and, if necessary, angiographic) examination internal organs and vessels in the chest area;
• ultrasound (ultrasound) examination (to detect a decrease in the speed of the main blood flow and the presence of cholesterol plaques);
• other methods and methods determined by the attending physicians (depending on the specifics of the disease).

Modern methods of treating atherosclerosis

Modern medical practice involves two main methods of treating atherosclerosis: drug therapy (in 80% of cases) and surgical intervention(in 20% of cases). How to treat atherosclerosis?

Drug treatment

In most cases, to eliminate the main cause of the disease, doctors prescribe special drugs (medicines for vascular atherosclerosis), which include 4 main groups: statins, fibrates, nicotinic acid and bile acid sequestrants.

This method of treating atherosclerosis is practiced in conjunction with an (individually selected) diet and a set of physical exercises. For diseases of the extremities, the use of physiotherapy is permissible. So, about the drugs...

Bile acid sequestrants– are polymeric insoluble compounds (ion exchange resins), the main task of which is to “bind” bad cholesterol, as well as bile acids synthesized from it in the liver. As a result, the level of cholesterol in the body's cells quickly decreases.

Please note: with long-term / “protracted” treatment with these drugs, problems with the intestines may occur (the first alarming symptoms: diarrhea and flatulence). It is for this reason that “fat sequestrants” are usually prescribed at the initial stage of development of atherosclerosis or for short-term prophylaxis.

For the treatment of atherosclerosis, they are used to most effectively reduce cholesterol levels in the blood serum, blocking its synthesis in the liver. Due to the identification of many side effects, these days, in addition to statin drugs, experienced doctors usually prescribe other medications that support the normal functioning of the heart, liver and intestines. For insurance.

They are relatively new and (as practice has shown) quite effective medications against atherosclerosis. Usually prescribed in combination with statins. Since the mechanism of action of these drugs is not aimed (!) at reducing cholesterol, but (by destroying their structure). Not suitable for patients suffering from liver disease (or predisposed to it).

Medicines – derivatives of nicotinic acid (). Having a lot of advantages, one of which is an excellent vasodilating effect, they are an important component in the complex treatment program for atherosclerosis. Despite many advantages, they are strictly contraindicated for patients suffering from diabetes, gallbladder diseases and liver failure.

Surgical operations

In case of high risks of developing atherosclerosis (vascular occlusion by cholesterol plaque or blood clot), modern medicine recommends emergency surgery. At the moment, in the treatment of atherosclerosis, modern medicine has the following types of operations:

Open type(surgical removal of atherosclerotic plaques or straightening of tortuosity - endarterectomy).

Bypass surgery(invasive method). In this case, surgeons suture the affected area of ​​the vessel to a healthy one (or “bypass” it using an implant) in order to form a new blood line. As a result, there is a gradual restoration of blood supply to tissues.

Prosthetics. Using innovative materials (the latest advances in medicine), the affected vessel (after resection/removal) is completely replaced with a graft.

Balloon angioplasty and artery stenting. When the lumen of a narrowed vessel is expanded using a balloon, after which (if necessary) stents are installed (special metal inserts to hold the lumen in the arteries/vessels). In practice it looks like this: via femoral artery a catheter is inserted and, under the control of a mini-camera, it is “guided” (along the bloodstream) to the affected area. Next, surgeons perform the actions described above.

Another effective method of treating atherosclerosis, as well as a number of other serious diseases (especially deadly ones), is prayer to God. Followed by - in the right way life: both for the body/organism and for the soul. Faith is a powerful force! Not all of us are descended from apes; most educated people are descendants of Adam, created by God.

Prevention of atherosclerosis

Preventive measures to prevent atherosclerosis include complete abstinence bad habits(especially smoking), normalization of the emotional background (exclusion of stressful “foci”). As well as proper nutrition, systematic physical exercise(according to the age category / general health of the person) and smooth weight loss.

Smart nutrition

To prevent atherosclerosis, you should completely eliminate foods high in trans fats, salt and sugar from your diet. Replace semi-finished and fried foods with cereal foods, vegetables, berries and fruits. Everyone consume vegetable oils(the most useful are olive and flaxseed containing omega-3 complex). Eat fish dishes at least 2 times a week.

Weight loss

According to reputable doctors, for a metabolic shift for the better (with a subsequent increase in the level of good HDL cholesterol, which “washes out” LDL bad cholesterol from the walls of blood vessels - the culprit in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques), it is enough to reduce weight by even 6-7%. The best means for losing body weight are a low-calorie diet and a set of physical exercises.

Health-improving set of exercises

An active lifestyle should begin with minimal exercise recommended by treating specialists. Depending on age and general health. The best place to start is daily walks in the fresh air. The ideal option (which you should strive for) is 30/45 minute workouts 3-4 times a week. This is especially true for women after the active phase of menopause and men suffering from abdominal obesity.

Video about atherosclerosis

Atherosclerotic damage to blood vessels is an unpleasant diagnosis that is faced mainly by older people. In official medicine, atherosclerosis of the arteries is called the main cause of the development of life-threatening conditions: ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and internal organ failure.

To date, no methods have been found for the treatment of vascular atherosclerosis that could permanently get rid of the disease. Patients have to take a number of special medications for the rest of their lives. But even this does not guarantee that there is no risk of deadly complications. For treatment of atherosclerosis to be effective, you have to change your lifestyle, follow a diet, and systematically undergo comprehensive diagnostics.

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What is atherosclerosis and can it be cured?

Official medicine classifies vascular atherosclerosis as a complex lesion of large and medium arteries by deposits consisting of cholesterol. Lipids form so-called plaques, which interfere with normal blood flow and, under certain conditions, flake off, clogging the lumen of smaller vascular branches. As the disease progresses, cholesterol deposits thicken and become more rigid due to the presence of connective tissue cells and calcifications in them. It becomes impossible to remove them using conservative methods.

In recent decades, pathology has acquired alarming proportions:

• the disease is diagnosed in every third man over 50 years of age, and in every fifth woman at the same age;
• half of the patients, even despite timely treatment of atherosclerosis, develop serious life-threatening complications;
• Mortality from atherosclerosis exceeded the rates of cancer, injuries and infections.

Such statistics are due to people’s ignorance of what atherosclerosis is, how it manifests itself and how you can protect yourself from this dangerous disease. Moreover, at least 15% of patients experiencing symptoms of the disease deny the need for diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis, do not follow doctor’s recommendations and refuse to take medications.

Contrary to the opinion of many patients who believe that atherosclerosis affects single vessels of individual organs (only the heart or only the brain), experts consider this disease to be systemic. The causes of atherosclerotic changes are multifaceted, so they cannot affect single vessels: the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis is based on a complex change in metabolism, metabolism and the functioning of internal organs, which is why pathological changes are observed in all large and medium-sized arteries.

Effective treatment of vascular atherosclerosis requires significant efforts. Doctors and the patient will have to work on nutrition and lifestyle, while simultaneously reducing the level of harmful lipids in the blood with medications. At the same time, there is no question of whether it is possible to cure atherosclerosis once and for all. Today, this disease is considered incurable, requiring lifelong therapy and constant monitoring of the state of the circulatory system and the functioning of the organs affected by the pathology.

Which doctor treats atherosclerosis?

If you suspect problems with blood vessels, you should not choose which specialist is best to contact. To begin with, it is recommended to consult a therapist. He will appoint comprehensive examination and if atherosclerotic changes are detected, he will refer you to a specialist. Which organs are affected by the disease will depend on which doctor treats atherosclerosis in an individual patient. This is usually done by several specialists: a cardiologist, a neurologist, a surgeon and other doctors of narrow specializations.

What is dangerous about atherosclerosis - the mechanism of development

The development of atherosclerotic changes occurs very slowly. On average, from the onset of pathological changes in blood vessels to the appearance negative consequences atherosclerosis takes at least 20-30 years. The slow progression causes symptoms to increase unnoticed. And this is the first reason why atherosclerotic changes in blood vessels are dangerous. An exacerbation of a disease or its manifestation is always sudden, which is why the patient may not receive timely help - in order to provide it, doctors must first diagnose high cholesterol and atherosclerosis.

For a long time, the patient does not notice the changes occurring in him and the initial signs of atherosclerosis, until the first vascular catastrophe occurs:

• ischemia of organs (brain, heart, kidneys and others);
• hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke;
• formation and rupture of aneurysm.

To prevent this from happening, it is important to know about the first signs of atherosclerosis and understand what exactly leads to the deposition of cholesterol in the arteries. This will allow you to assess risks and suspect problems with blood vessels before changes become irreversible or life-threatening.

The main factors in the development of atherosclerosis are conventionally divided into two groups:

1. Independent of a person, his environment, lifestyle. According to statistics, age is considered the main factor predisposing to the occurrence of cholesterol deposits. The older a person is, the higher the risk of getting sick. There are no known cases in medicine where atherosclerosis was detected in children, although theoretically and in practice there are cases of detection in large arteries in adolescents and children at the initial stage of pathology. It is they who have the second irreducible factor - hereditary predisposition. In such patients, the causes of atherosclerosis most often consist of a violation metabolic processes, in which cholesterol is produced in the body in excessive quantities.
2. Depending on the person, his environment and lifestyle. First of all, this is an unhealthy diet that contains a lot of animal fats. Smoking, alcohol, and limited physical activity complicate the situation with cholesterol deposits. In the presence of these factors, atherosclerosis first affects the walls of blood vessels, and the body tries to restore them by forming a fatty film consisting of cholesterol.

Often, signs of atherosclerosis appear against the background of other diseases that are partially or completely controllable, but cannot be cured: diabetes, dyslipidemia (impaired lipid balance and metabolism in the body), hypertension, and general intoxication of the body. Such conditions lead to damage to arterial walls and prevent the breakdown and removal of harmful fats from the body.

Important! Atherosclerosis does not develop in the presence of one predisposing factor. For the progression of the disease to dangerous diagnosable stages, a combination of removable and non-removable, controllable and uncontrollable factors in various variations is necessary.

If the disease is not detected in a timely manner, or the patient for some reason does not receive treatment, he is at risk of such dangerous conditions as vascular insufficiency of internal organs, acute heart attack or stroke, or ruptured aneurysm.

Stages of atherosclerosis

Regarding the stages of development of atherosclerosis, the classification distinguishes 3 stages of disease progression. Each of them is characterized by varying degrees of arterial damage. The development of atherosclerosis by stages is described in more detail in the table below:

Disease stage	Localization of pathological foci	What happens to the vascular wall
Stage I - fatty spot	Large arteries at their branches.	In the initial stage of atherosclerosis, the body’s protective reaction to microdamage to the vascular walls takes place. At the site of such damage, local swelling and loosening occurs. Enzymes dissolve lipids for some time, protecting the integrity of the intima (inner surface of the vessel), and as the protective functions are depleted, increased deposition of lipids and proteins occurs. On early stage atherosclerosis does not manifest itself in any way. It can only be detected by examining the damaged area of ​​the artery under a microscope. Such changes can occur even in children. Further development of atherosclerosis will occur only in the presence of predisposing and traumatic factors.
Stage II - liposclerosis	Branches of large and smaller arteries.	Progressive atherosclerosis is accompanied by the formation of connective fibers in the fatty spot - an atherosclerotic plaque is formed. It is soft enough and does not interfere with blood flow, but under certain conditions it can come off and clog smaller vessels. The artery wall under the plaque, on the contrary, becomes less elastic, and with changes in blood pressure it can be destroyed, which leads to the formation of blood clots. At this stage of atherosclerosis, the first alarming symptoms are observed.
Stage III- atherocalcinosis	Any sections of large and medium-sized arteries.	With atherosclerosis of the 3rd degree, the cholesterol plaque thickens due to the accumulation of calcium salts to it. It becomes harder and continues to grow, causing the lumen of the arteries to noticeably narrow. The patient experiences severe symptoms associated with insufficient blood supply to organs, and sometimes to parts of the body (when peripheral atherosclerosis occurs). Ischemia of the brain, myocardium, kidneys and intestines occurs, and the risk of occlusion (blockage) increases significantly. Patients who have suffered this condition often experience post-infarction atherosclerosis, gangrene of the extremities, and necrosis of tissue of internal organs.

It is noteworthy that in the initial stages early signs atherosclerosis is ignored, although in the first stages the disease can be successfully controlled by taking a combination of medications. At stages 2 and 3 of the disease, treatment of atherosclerosis is more complex. It requires not only stabilization of cholesterol levels, but also restoration of the functions of internal organs and systems.

Symptoms

There are no specific symptoms of atherosclerosis. Clinical manifestations of pathology are always complex and directly depend on which organs are affected by insufficient blood supply.

When the cerebral arteries are damaged, the following symptoms occur:

• deterioration short term memory- the patient remembers what happened in the distant past, but forgets events that took place a few minutes ago;
• sleep disorders - the patient has problems falling asleep, suffers from insomnia, wakes up several times at night;
• neurological disorders - mood swings, exacerbation of character traits, irritability are combined with regular headaches that are not relieved by conventional painkillers.

Symptoms develop gradually, which is why they are not always perceived as something threatening. At the final stage, they acquire particularly acute features: the patient suffers from constant feeling fatigue, cannot lead the same lifestyle and take care of himself due to persistent memory impairment. There is a loss of interest in life, apathy. Most people suffering from the disease become depressed.

Symptoms may resemble manifestations of heart and pulmonary diseases, as it causes:

• shortness of breath, shortness of breath;
• general weakness and rapid fatigue during physical activity;
• dull pain in the chest;
• heart rhythm disturbances such as angina pectoris.

Often, taking over-the-counter heart medications (Validol, Nitroglycerin, Corvalol) does not bring relief for such symptoms.

The symptoms resemble tumor processes in the abdominal and pelvic organs. At the same time, patients complain of the following discomfort:

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• paroxysmal abdominal pain of unclear localization that is not associated with food intake and stool;
• bloating that is not associated with eating fiber-rich foods;
• frequent tension of the anterior abdominal wall.

As in the case of damage to other vessels, standard medications (antispasmodics, analgesics, enterosorbents, defoamers and others) do not have the desired effect.

Atherosclerosis of the renal arteries is also accompanied by nonspecific symptoms. When this group of vessels is affected, patients suffer from a severe form of arterial hypertension. Against this background, dull pain in the lower back is observed, which persists during activity and at rest.

Patients complain of pain and heaviness in the legs, which at the initial stage of the disease subside at rest. Along with this, the quality changes skin: It becomes pale and dry in the area below the narrowing of the vessel. If atherosclerosis is not treated, formations will form on the limbs closer to the foot. trophic ulcers and areas of necrosis, which can then develop into gangrene. Similar symptoms are observed with damage to the arteries of the arms.

It is almost impossible to independently differentiate the disease due to the nonspecificity of symptoms. Moreover, narrow specialists also cannot always immediately suspect this pathology, since in clinical practice It is extremely rare that only one group of arteries is affected: the combination of symptoms can be extremely atypical and unexpected, which makes diagnosis difficult.

Treatment of vascular atherosclerosis

Treatment for vascular atherosclerosis is aimed at restoring and stimulating metabolism (primarily proteins and lipids), reducing cholesterol synthesis in the body and limiting its intake from food. Positive dynamics are observed only with therapy in the initial stages of the disease, while lipid deposits in the arteries do not contain connective tissue and calcifications. In advanced forms of the disease, complex therapy can only guarantee the absence of further progress.

Medicines

The main direction of therapy is taking several groups of medications. Statins play a major role in atherosclerosis. This group of drugs is designed to reduce cholesterol levels in the body by reducing the synthesis of lipids in the liver and reducing their absorption in the digestive tract. Bile acid sequestrants and fibrates, as well as nicotinic acid derivatives, have similar properties.

In addition to the listed drugs, patients with atherosclerotic changes are prescribed additional drugs:

• preparations containing Omega-3 - they improve lipid metabolism, reduce inflammation in the walls of arteries, and to a certain extent reduce blood viscosity;
• drugs that improve blood circulation in organs and tissues, including those based on medicinal herbs;
• drugs to stabilize blood pressure;
• sedatives and nootropics, including those based on herbal components.

Medicines are selected individually, taking into account the diagnostic results and the presence of concomitant diseases.

Diet

Drug therapy must be accompanied by compliance, since treating vascular atherosclerosis with drugs alone is not effective: without limiting the intake of lipids from food, they will not be able to have a pronounced effect on the body.

The following are excluded from the patient’s menu:

• animal products high in fat, including meat, lard, milk, sour cream and cream, butter;
• solid vegetable and animal fats;
• sweets, baked goods, chocolate and cream cakes, ice cream;
• alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks;
• strong coffee and tea.

The basis of the diet should be vegetables and fruits rich in fiber, cereals (oatmeal, buckwheat, rice), white meat (chicken and turkey breasts), seafood and sea fish, natural low-fat yogurt or kefir, egg whites or quail eggs, skim milk. Bread and pastries can be eaten if they are made from wholemeal flour.

In addition to a set of certain products special role plays a role in the way food is prepared. The preferred cooking method is boiling, steaming, baking in parchment and stewing in its own juices. Meals should be fractional: the serving size should not exceed 200 ml, and the number of meals ranges from 5 to 7 times a day.

Surgical intervention

If there is a high risk of arterial blockage and the development of a heart attack or stroke, treatment of atherosclerosis continues with the use of surgical methods. There are 4 effective methods of restoring blood flow:

• endarterectomy- open surgery on the arteries, during which the cholesterol plaque is removed along with part of it inner shell vessel;
• endovascular dilatation of arteries- expansion of the lumen using balloon catheters;
• endovascular stenting- expansion of the lumen of the arteries using a spiral or mesh cylinder (stent);
• coronary artery bypass surgery- creation of a new blood supply channel bypassing the damaged section of the artery.

A successful surgical intervention does not mean that the patient is completely free of the problem. After the operation, he will have to take medications and follow a diet.

How to identify atherosclerosis - diagnostic methods

For modern medicine, diagnosing atherosclerosis does not seem to be a difficult task, especially if the patient has clear clinical signs of the disease. Initial conclusions are drawn up based on an oral interview with the patient and a general examination. Evidence in favor of the disease is:

• swelling of soft tissues;
• trophic changes in the skin of the extremities;
• low weight;
• the presence of wen on the body;
• change in arterial pulsation;
• high or unstable blood pressure.

Since it is impossible to diagnose atherosclerosis only on the basis of complaints and history taking, a comprehensive examination is carried out, which includes:

• blood tests for low-density lipoproteins, triglycerides and cholesterol;
• vascular angiography;
• kidneys, carotid and coronary arteries, vessels of the lower extremities and aorta.

Also, the diagnosis of atherosclerosis may include examination using MRI and CT. Using these examination methods, organ damage due to tissue ischemia is diagnosed. Rheovasography of the lower extremities is also of no small importance, making it possible to detect a decrease in the speed of blood flow in them. This type of diagnosis is useful for incipient disease, since it can be difficult to detect atherosclerosis using previously mentioned methods at this stage of progression.

Complications of atherosclerosis

With the disease atherosclerosis and dyslipidemia, patients are threatened with many complications, because almost all organs and systems suffer from insufficient blood circulation. Conventionally, they can be divided into 3 groups:

Vascular insufficiency caused by insufficient nutrition and gas exchange in the tissues of internal organs: such complications of atherosclerosis can be represented by dystrophic and necrotic changes, which inevitably affect the functionality of organs and systems. When the brain is damaged, the consequences of such processes can be progressive dementia, loss of vision, hearing, memory and profound disability. When the heart vessels are damaged, patients develop ischemic disease, which also leads to profound disability. Damage to the arteries supplying internal organs (kidneys, intestines, liver) results in multiple organ failure or organ necrosis. Atherosclerosis in the legs is complicated by gangrene.

Severance of cholesterol plaques or the formation of blood clots with subsequent blockage of blood vessels: Such complications of atherosclerosis arise rapidly and are catastrophic in nature (it is not for nothing that in medicine there are the terms “brain catastrophe” and “heart catastrophe”). As a result of such processes, myocardial infarction and acute ischemic stroke develop. The result is paralysis and loss of many usual functions. More than 70% die in the first year after plaque detachment occurs.

Thinning of the vessel wall with its subsequent protrusion outward - the development of an aneurysm: this complication can develop over a long period of time and go unnoticed. With stress, physical and emotional stress, which are often accompanied by surges in blood pressure, the artery wall can burst. Rupture of an aneurysm leads to heavy internal bleeding and is fatal in 80% of cases.

The only way to avoid such dangerous consequences of the disease is to consult a doctor if symptoms appear that may indicate vascular atherosclerosis. After diagnosis, it is important to strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations, lead a healthy lifestyle and take medications prescribed by a specialist. If these conditions are met, the patient can live to a ripe old age and maintain a high quality of life.

Video: atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a fairly common chronic disease characterized by its own progression. Atherosclerosis, the symptoms of which appear against the background of damage to medium and large arteries due to the accumulation of cholesterol in them (which determines the cause of this disease), becomes the cause of circulatory disorders and a number of serious risks provoked by this disorder.

general description

With atherosclerosis, atherosclerotic plaques form on the walls of blood vessels (they are based on fatty deposits in combination with growing connective tissue). Because of these plaques, narrowing of blood vessels occurs and their subsequent deformation. These changes, in turn, lead to disruption of blood circulation, as well as damage to internal organs. Large arteries are mainly affected.

Let's take a closer look at the picture of this disease. First of all, we note that the occurrence and subsequent formation of atherosclerosis depends on the following factors:

• the state in which the vascular walls are located;
• relevance of the genetic hereditary factor;
• disorders in fat (lipid) metabolism.

Cholesterol, originally noted, is a fat; it helps ensure a number of different functions in our body. In other words, it can be considered as a building material used in cell walls. In addition, cholesterol is a component of vitamins and hormones, which ensure adequate functioning of the body. Approximately 70% of the total amount of cholesterol is synthesized in the liver, while the remaining part enters the body through food.

Note that cholesterol in the body is not in a free state; it is included in specific complex compounds of fats and protein - lipoproteins. Lipoproteins, in turn, enable its transfer from the liver to tissues through the bloodstream. If cholesterol in the body is in excess, then from the tissues it is sent to the liver, and this is where the excess amount is utilized. Disruption of the functioning of this mechanism leads to the development of the disease we are considering, that is, atherosclerosis.

In the development of atherosclerosis, the main role is played by low-density lipoproteins, abbreviated as LDL. They ensure the transportation of cholesterol from the liver to the cells, and such transportation is subject to a strictly defined amount, otherwise exceeding the level determines a serious risk for possible development against this background of atherosclerosis.

As for the reverse transport of cholesterol from tissues to the liver, it is ensured by high-density lipoproteins, which in abbreviated form defines them as HDL, a separate class of anti-atherogenic lipoproteins. They ensure cleansing of the surface layer of cells from excess cholesterol. The risk of developing atherosclerosis occurs when reduced level HDL cholesterol and with elevated LDL levels.

Let us dwell on the age-related characteristics of atherosclerosis. Thus, it can be noted that the initial type of changes within the walls of arteries (their medium and large caliber) are noted already at a young age. Subsequently, they evolve, during which they transform into fibroadenomatous plaques, which, in turn, often develop after the age of 40 years. This atherosclerotic vascular lesion is relevant in approximately 17% of cases in patients under 20 years of age, in 60% in patients under 40 years of age, in 85% in patients aged 50 years and older.

In the future, the picture of the disease looks like this. The arterial wall undergoes penetration into its base by fibrin, cholesterol and a number of substances, due to the influence of which an atherosclerotic plaque is formed. Being in excess amounts, cholesterol, when exerted accordingly, causes the plaque to increase in size, which creates an obstacle to adequate blood flow through the vessels in the area of ​​the formed narrowing. Against this background, blood flow decreases and inflammation develops. Blood clots also form; they can subsequently break off, thereby posing a significant danger to the vessels that are vital in our body. This is due to the possibility of their blockage, which, in turn, will deprive the organs of the blood supply they require.

Causes of atherosclerosis

The causes of atherosclerosis can be very different, they are also equated with risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis, which indicates that compliance with these factors increases the risk of possible development of atherosclerosis in patients. In general, such risk factors can be divided into two main groups depending on the nature of the patient’s exposure to them. Thus, the causes of the development of atherosclerosis can be modifiable and unmodifiable (modifiable and non-modifiable).

Unchangeable (non-modifiable) reasons as can be determined from their name, it is impossible to change with one or another measures of influence (including medical ones). The following can be identified as such factors:

• Floor. This factor is considered as an independent risk factor in considering the picture of the development of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis in men develops approximately 10 years earlier, which is known based on certain statistical data on this matter when compared with female morbidity. In addition, before reaching the age of 50, the risk of developing this disease in men is four times higher than in women. Upon reaching the threshold of 50 years of age, the incidence in both sexes is equalized. This feature is explained by the fact that in the female body from this period specific hormonal changes, and the protective function provided by estrogen disappears (here, as you can understand, we are talking about menopause and a gradual decrease in the intensity of the release of these estrogen hormones).
• Age. As the reader may have already noticed, with age the risk of developing the disease we are considering increases. Accordingly, the older the person, the greater this risk. And, of course, it is also impossible to influence this factor, which is why it is considered in this particular group. It should be noted that in general, atherosclerosis as a disease is often compared with the aging of the body, that is, as one of the manifestations of this process. This is explained by the fact that atherosclerotic changes after moving beyond a specific age period are determined in absolutely all patients. And, as already noted, from the age of 45-50 the risk of such changes especially increases.
• Genetic predisposition. This risk factor is also unchanged when considering atherosclerosis. Thus, those patients whose immediate relatives are diagnosed with one or another form of it are especially susceptible to this disease. It is generally accepted that genetic predisposition(aka heredity) also acts as a factor that determines the relative acceleration of the development of atherosclerosis (before reaching the age of 50). Meanwhile, in people whose age exceeds 50 years, the heredity factor in practice determines a slight influence on the development of atherosclerosis, accordingly a clear statement regarding early development This disease cannot be given if it is present in relatives.

Changeable (modifiable) reasons, in turn, are characterized by the fact that the patient can influence them. This may include lifestyle adjustments, treatment, etc. Let us highlight separately the options that are relevant for the disease in question:

• Arterial hypertension. This reason (factor) is independent in considering the development of atherosclerosis. The peculiarity of the effects of hypertension is that against its background there is an increase in the intensity of saturation of arterial walls with fats, which, in turn, is considered as the initial stage in the development of the main manifestation of atherosclerosis, atherosclerotic plaque. At the same time, atherosclerosis, due to which the elasticity of the arteries is subject to change, is a factor that increases the risk of developing hypertension in a patient.
• Smoking. This factor is a serious aid for the development of many diseases, and atherosclerosis is no exception. With long-term smoking, the risk of developing the hypertension discussed above, as a predisposing factor in the development of atherosclerosis, increases, which already makes it possible to trace the chain of changes that are relevant in this case. In addition, smoking also contributes to the development of coronary heart disease (coronary heart disease) and hyperlipidemia, which also accelerates the development of atherosclerosis in smokers. The basis of the influence is based on the negative impact that the components of tobacco smoke have directly on the blood vessels.
• Obesity. Another, no less significant factor contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. Again, obesity predisposes not only to the development of atherosclerosis itself, but also one of the factors we have already listed, arterial hypertension, which in any case, as one can understand, connects this factor with the disease we are considering. Additionally, we note that obesity is one of the main factors in the development of diabetes mellitus, which also plays an important role in considering the modifiable factors that interest us.
• Diabetes. The relevance of this factor for patients significantly increases the risk of developing atherosclerosis (about 5-7 times). Such a high risk is explained by the relevance of metabolic disorders (in particular, this applies to fats), which provokes the development of atherosclerotic changes in blood vessels.
• Hyperlipidemia (dyslipidemia). This factor implies a violation in the metabolism of fats, which determines its no less significant role in terms of considering the factors that provoke atherosclerosis. It should be noted that all of the above factors are directly related to dyslipidemia, that is, with each of them, the problem of impaired fat metabolism is relevant. The main role in the development of atherosclerosis (as, indeed, other types of diseases associated with cardiovascular system) is attributed to the following forms of fat metabolism disorders: increased cholesterol levels, increased triglyceride levels and increased levels of lipoproteins in the blood.
• Nutritional features. The development of atherosclerosis is particularly influenced by the presence of a significant amount of animal fats in diet products.
• Physical inactivity (sedentary lifestyle). This factor also plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis, including the development of the previously listed conditions (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, obesity). Due to reduced physical activity, as you might guess, the metabolic processes of carbohydrates and fats are disrupted, which, accordingly, increases the risk of developing the listed disorders and atherosclerosis in particular.
• Infections. The infectious nature of the development of atherosclerosis began to be considered relatively recently. Based on the ongoing research, it was found that cytomegalovirus and chlamydial infections can be considered as two options representing this point in its connection with atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis: stages

As we have already highlighted, the pathological process relevant for atherosclerosis is concentrated within the walls of the arteries. This, in turn, leads to the gradual destruction of the affected wall. In accordance with the degree of damage and its characteristics, 3 stages of atherosclerosis are determined, successive in their manifestation, and we will consider them below.

• Stage I. As part of its manifestation lipid stains form. This implies the impregnation of arterial walls with fat molecules; the localization of impregnation is noted only within limited areas of the walls. These areas appear as yellowish stripes concentrated along the entire length of the affected artery. The features of this stage are characterized by the fact that the symptoms of atherosclerosis as such do not manifest themselves, and in general there are no specific disorders that could be used to determine the relevance of the circulation disorder in the blood arteries. Acceleration of the formation of lipid spots can occur due to the influence of the modifiable factors discussed above in the form of obesity, arterial hypertension and diabetes.
• Stage II. This stage is also defined as the stage of liposclerosis, characterized by the development of atherosclerosis to a stage in which inflammation of lipid spots occurs, which leads to the accumulation of immune system cells in their cavities. In particular, they are making attempts to cleanse the arterial wall of fats that have managed to be deposited on it (in some cases these can be microbes). Against the background of a prolonged inflammatory process, the fats deposited on the arterial wall begin to decompose, and at the same time the germination of connective tissues occurs in it. It leads to formation of fibrous plaque, which defines this stage. The surface of such a plaque is in a slightly elevated position relative to the inner surface of the affected vessel, thereby narrowing its lumen and disrupting blood circulation.
• Stage III. This stage is the final stage in the development of atherosclerosis; it is characterized by development of a number of complications, directly related to the development of fibrous plaque. In addition, it is from this stage of the disease that its symptoms begin to appear. This stage is defined as the stage of atherocalcinosis. The progression of plaque deformation at this stage is determined by the compaction that is relevant to it, as well as the deposition of calcium salts in it. The nature of the manifestation of an atherosclerotic plaque can determine both its stability and gradual growth, due to which it will continue to deform the lumen of the artery and narrow it. Against the background of this last option, the development of a progressive form will, in turn, be provoked chronic disorder in the blood supply of the organ that is fed by the artery that has undergone such a lesion. This also causes a significant risk of occlusion formation ( acute form blockage), in which the lumen of the vessel is blocked either by a thrombus or an element of plaque disintegration, as a result of which the blood supplying organ or limb undergoes another type of damage against this background - in the form of the formation of an area of ​​necrosis (infarction) or gangrene.

Atherosclerosis: symptoms

The aorta (abdominal and thoracic sections), mesenteric, coronary and renal arteries, as well as arteries of the brain and lower extremities are predominantly affected by atherosclerosis.

As part of the development of the disease, its asymptomatic (or preclinical) period and the clinical period are distinguished. The asymptomatic period is accompanied by increased content beta-lipoproteins in the blood or increased levels of cholesterol in it, while symptoms, as can be understood from the definition of this period, are absent.

As for the period of clinical manifestations, they are relevant when the arterial lumen is narrowed by 50% or more. This, in turn, determines the relevance of the three main stages of the period: the ischemic stage, the thromonecrotic stage and the fibrotic stage.

Ischemic stage characterized by the fact that it disrupts the blood supply to a certain organ. As an example, we can highlight the picture of the course of this stage, in which myocardial ischemia against the background of atherosclerosis of the coronary vessels manifests itself in the form of angina pectoris. Thrombonecrotic stage characterized by the addition of thrombosis of arteries that have undergone changes. Atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries in this case can, in its course, reach complications in the form of myocardial infarction. And finally fibrous stage, which is characterized by the proliferation of connective tissue that occurs in organs that are ineffectively supplied with blood. Again, when considering atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries at this stage, one can distinguish the transition to the development of such a pathology as atherosclerotic cardiosclerosis.

As for the specific manifestations of atherosclerosis, its symptoms are determined based on what type of arteries is affected. Below we will look at the main options for the course of this disease.

Atherosclerosis of the aorta: symptoms

Atherosclerosis of the aorta is the most common manifestation of atherosclerosis; accordingly, it is detected in most patients. Atherosclerosis can affect its various parts, on the basis of which, in turn, the symptoms of the disease and its prognosis are determined.

As you probably know, the aorta is the largest vessel in our body. It starts from the heart (left ventricle), then branches, thereby forming many small vessels that spread to the tissues and organs of our body. The aorta consists of two main sections, which are located in anatomically different areas. These sections are the abdominal and thoracic aorta.

The thoracic aorta in the aorta is the initial section; it provides blood supply to the upper part of our body, respectively, these are the organs of the chest itself, the neck, head and upper limbs. As for the abdominal aorta, it is the final section; blood supply through it is provided to the abdominal organs. In turn, its final section is divided into two main branches, which are the left and right iliac arteries, through which blood flows to the lower extremities and pelvic organs.

In atherosclerosis of the aorta, the lesion that is relevant for this disease covers either the entire aorta along its length, or its individual areas. Symptoms in this case are also determined depending on where exactly the pathological process is localized and how pronounced the changes that arose in the walls of the aorta under its influence became.

The most dangerous complication caused by aortic atherosclerosis is an aortic aneurysm. With an aortic aneurysm, a certain section of the artery expands, which is accompanied by thinning of the vessel wall and an increased risk of rupture of the artery, which, in turn, can lead to life-threatening bleeding.

Atherosclerosis of the thoracic aorta: symptoms

There are no symptoms for a long time. Often, atherosclerosis of this department develops along with such forms of the disease as atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries of the heart (i.e., coronary arteries), as well as atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels.

The manifestation of symptoms is observed mainly at the age of 60-70 years, which is explained by the significant damage to the aortic walls by this time. Patients have complaints about burning pain in the chest area, systolic blood pressure increases, swallowing becomes difficult, and dizziness is common.

As less specific manifestations Symptoms may include early aging, which is combined with the early appearance of gray hair. At the same time, an abundance of hair growth is noted in the area of ​​the ears, a characteristic light stripe appears along the outer edge of the iris, and wen appears on the skin of the face.

Atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta: symptoms

This form of the disease is diagnosed in almost half of the cases of all possible variants of its manifestation. Similar to the previous form, for a long time it may not manifest itself at all.

Atherosclerosis of the area under consideration acts as the cause of the development in patients of such a pathology as abdominal ischemic disease. It, similar to IHD (coronary artery disease), is characterized by the fact that it leads to disruption of blood supply against the background of vascular damage by atherosclerosis, which is particularly important for those organs that these vessels nourish.

Symptoms accompanying damage to the abdominal aorta may manifest themselves in the following:

• Stomach ache. Such pain occurs after eating, the nature of the manifestation is paroxysmal, aching. As a rule, they are not too intense and do not have a clear localization. Such pain disappears on its own after a few hours.
• Digestive disorders. In particular, complaints of bloating, constipation and diarrhea (alternating conditions) and decreased appetite are relevant.
• Weight loss. This symptom is progressive and is caused by a persistent form of indigestion.
• Arterial hypertension (high blood pressure), renal failure. High blood pressure is due to the fact that the blood supply to the kidneys is subject to disruption. As for kidney failure, it develops due to the fact that their normal tissues gradually begin to be replaced by connective tissues. This, in turn, determines their gradual necrosis against the background of insufficient blood supply.
• Thrombosis of visceral arteries. This complication is deadly if there is atherosclerosis of the part of the aorta in question; moreover, it requires immediate specialized medical care. When the vessels that provide blood supply to the intestines become necrosis, the intestinal loops become necrosis, which leads to massive inflammation of organs concentrated in the abdominal cavity and peritoneum (which determines peritonitis). Symptoms of this condition include severe pain that does not disappear when taking antispasmodics and painkillers. In addition, the pain is soon joined by sudden deterioration general well-being.

Atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels: symptoms

This form of atherosclerosis is no less common; in this case, the intracranial and extracranial vessels supplying the brain are affected. The severity of symptoms is determined based on the degree of damage to these vessels. Due to atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels, the activity of the nervous system is gradually inhibited, and mental disorders or stroke may develop.

The first manifestations of symptoms of this form of atherosclerosis are diagnosed at 60-65 years of age in patients, and their interpretation in most cases is reduced only to the manifestations of signs of aging of the body. Meanwhile, such a belief is only partly correct. Aging itself is irreversible physiological process, while atherosclerosis acts as a specific type of disease, the course of which, until it reaches certain limits, determines the possibility of cure, as well as the implementation of certain preventive measures against it.

Now let's move on to the symptoms. The initial manifestations of this form of atherosclerosis are episodic attacks of “ischemic attack”, during which relatively stable neurological symptoms appear. This particularly includes sensitivity disorders, which can manifest themselves either in a decrease in sensitivity on one side of the body, or in complete loss. There are also movement disorders in the form of paresis (partial loss of muscle strength) and paralysis. In addition, hearing, vision and speech impairments may occur. The listed symptoms, meanwhile, appear within a short period of time, after which they disappear.

With a severe form of cerebral atherosclerosis, a stroke often develops, in which necrosis of a certain area of ​​cerebral tissue occurs. This condition is characterized by a persistent manifestation of the symptoms we have already discussed (loss of sensitivity, paralysis, loss of speech); it is treatable to a small extent.

Other manifestations of the symptoms of atherosclerosis of this form include a disorder of higher nervous activity in one form or another (in particular, this applies to intellectual abilities and memory), changes in character (pictiness, capriciousness, etc.), sleep disturbances, development of depressive states.

Lack of adequate treatment can lead to dementia (senile dementia). It, in turn, is a severe and, unfortunately, irreversible manifestation of a decrease in the higher functions inherent in the brain.

Stroke is the greatest danger of this disease. This condition is essentially a condition similar to myocardial infarction, a condition in which tissue death occurs. This condition is accompanied by increased mortality, as well as frequent disability of patients.

It should be noted that in some cases, symptoms indicating atherosclerosis of the cerebral arteries can be quite difficult to differentiate, for example, from the symptoms manifested in hypertensive encephalopathy or from actual disorders of cerebral blood supply due to the development of degenerative spinal diseases (for example, osteochondrosis). In reality, it often happens that in elderly patients many of the diseases that could be confused with atherosclerosis are relevant, therefore the diagnosis of this disease determines the need for an integrated approach to this process.

Atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities: symptoms

Similar to the forms we discussed earlier, atherosclerosis of the lower extremities (atherosclerosis obliterans) does not manifest itself for a long time, and this lasts until blood circulation through the vessels is seriously impaired due to the disease we are considering.

As a classic, one might say, symptom, in this case we consider pain that occurs in the muscles of the lower extremities when walking. This symptom has a definition corresponding to its manifestation - “intermittent claudication” (which is explained by periodic stops while walking due to emerging pain to reduce their intensity). Pain occurs in this case due to the fact that there is a lack of oxygen in the functioning muscles, which, in turn, occurs due to the specifics of atherosclerosis itself.

What is noteworthy is that arterial insufficiency that occurs with this form of atherosclerosis negatively affects not only the functions inherent in the legs, but it also acts as the cause of the development of trophic disorders, in which the nutrition of the lower extremities in particular is subject to disruption. Trophic disorders can manifest themselves in hair loss and skin changes (thinning, pallor). Nails are subject to deformation and become brittle. In severe cases, atherosclerosis of the legs is accompanied not only by muscle atrophy, but also by the formation of trophic ulcers in combination with gangrene.

Arterial insufficiency of the legs manifests itself in accordance with the disorders that determine its main four stages.

• Stage I . In this case, pain in the legs appears only in combination with significant physical activity (for example, this can be walking over long distances (one kilometer or more)).
• Stage II . In this case, the maximum distance for pain to occur is reduced, amounting to no more than 200 meters, after overcoming which, accordingly, pain appears.
• Stage III . Here pain occurs when walking within a distance of no more than 25 meters, or even at rest.
• IV stage . At this stage, patients develop trophic ulcers and gangrene of the lower extremities develops.

Another sign corresponding to the manifestations of atherosclerosis is the disappearance of the pulse noted in the area of ​​the arteries of the lower extremities (this may be the area on the back of the inner ankle, the area of ​​the popliteal fossa or the thigh area).

Thrombosis of the iliac arteries and the terminal part of the abdominal aorta provokes the development of Leriche syndrome.

Leriche syndrome is accompanied by impaired blood circulation, which is relevant for the arteries of the lower extremities, as well as for organs concentrated in the pelvic area. Quite often this syndrome develops against the background of atherosclerosis of the aorta. The manifestations of this pathology are similar to those that occur with atherosclerosis of the vessels of the legs.

In addition, impotence may develop, which, as is understandable, is relevant for men. Obliterating atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities can act as a serious type of trophic disorder directly affecting the limbs (legs), which can also lead to the development of gangrene, and, ultimately, to the loss of one of them. Accordingly, any warning sign may be a reason to contact a specialist.

Atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries of the heart: symptoms

This form of the disease acts as the main cause of the development of coronary heart disease in patients, which, in turn, develops against the background of impaired blood supply to the heart muscle. Myocardial infarction and angina pectoris are pathologies that directly depend on the degree of development of atherosclerosis affecting the arteries of the heart. Thus, with partial blockage, coronary disease develops (of varying severity of its own manifestation), and with complete blockage, myocardial infarction develops.

Dwelling on the features of the pathology that interests us, which is atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries of the heart, we will highlight the features of the blood supply to the heart. It is provided in particular by two coronary arteries that follow from the aorta. With any disturbance that occurs during blood circulation through the coronary (coronary) arteries, the work of the heart muscle is accordingly disrupted. This, in turn, can trigger a heart attack.

Most often, blood circulation is disrupted due to atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries. In this case, this pathology is accompanied by the formation of dense plaques, due to which the artery wall gradually becomes deformed and destroyed while its lumen narrows (a typical picture of the course of atherosclerosis). Symptoms of atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries correspond to those symptoms that appear with coronary artery disease, but in any case the main cause is atherosclerosis.

The main manifestations of symptoms, accordingly, in this case are the development of angina pectoris and ischemic heart disease; cardiosclerosis and myocardial infarction act as complications of atherosclerosis of the heart vessels. An attack of angina pectoris, which manifests itself in this form of atherosclerosis, is characterized by the following manifestations of symptoms:

• the appearance of burning, pressing pain in the chest area; spreading of such pain to the left shoulder and to the back; occurrence - when stressful situations occur or during physical activity;
• shortness of breath (there is a feeling of lack of air, it is usually accompanied by the above painful attack; in some cases, it becomes necessary to take a sitting position, because when lying down the patient simply begins to choke);
• The appearance of symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting and dizziness is considered as a possible option to complement the picture of the attack.

Treatment of an angina attack is ensured by the patient taking nitroglycerin; moreover, it is this drug that is the main one in considering the emergency relief of an attack.

In case of complications such as myocardial infarction Patients experience intense pain, reminiscent of those that occur with angina pectoris. The difference is that the use of nitroglycerin does not determine the corresponding effect. As additional manifestations of symptoms, severe shortness of breath is noted, the patient may lose consciousness. The manifestation of heart failure is characterized by its own severity.

If a complication such as cardiosclerosis, then heart failure manifests itself gradually, which is accompanied by a decrease physical activity in combination with shortness of breath and the occurrence of swelling.

Determination of specific signs corresponding to atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries can only be done using special diagnostic techniques.

Atherosclerosis of mesenteric vessels: symptoms

This form of atherosclerosis manifests itself predominantly in the upper abdomen. The time of onset of symptoms, which primarily consists of the appearance of pain, mainly occurs in the late hours, in particular after dinner. The duration of pain can range from several minutes to up to an hour. As accompanying symptoms, bloating and belching may also occur, and constipation may occur. Pain in atherosclerosis, when compared with the pain syndrome accompanying peptic ulcer disease, is not so long-lasting in its manifestation.

The main symptoms accompanying atherosclerosis in this form include the following manifestations:

• bloating;
• moderate manifestation of pain, determined by palpating the abdominal area;
• mild muscle tension in the anterior abdominal wall;
• weakening of peristalsis or its complete absence.

The listed manifestations are defined as such a condition as “angina pectoris”. It develops due to a discrepancy between what is required to ensure blood supply to organs digestive system the volume of blood and the actual volume, which, as can be understood, is insufficient for this.

As one of the complications of this form of atherosclerosis, thrombosis developing in the mesenteric vessels can be noted. As a rule, it appears suddenly, accompanied by the following accompanying symptoms:

• constant pain of a wandering or diffuse nature that occurs in the abdomen;
• pain in the navel area;
• nausea, repeated vomiting (with an admixture of bile; blood may also be present, which is noted in this case in the stool);
• constipation, flatulence (gas).

Often, thrombosis of mesenteric vessels results in the development of intestinal gangrene, which, in turn, is accompanied by severe symptoms of peritonitis.

Atherosclerosis of the renal arteries: symptoms

This form of atherosclerosis becomes the cause of the development of a persistent form of ischemia, which, in turn, acts as a factor provoking the development of stable high shape arterial hypertension.

Some cases of atherosclerosis of the renal arteries are accompanied by the absence of symptoms. Meanwhile, more often the picture of the disease manifests itself in the form of the development of atherosclerotic plaques with simultaneous narrowing of the lumen of the renal artery, against which a secondary form of arterial hypertension develops.

If only one of the renal arteries is affected, we can talk about the slow progression of this disease; the leading manifestation of symptoms in this case is high blood pressure. If the spread of the process affects both arteries at once, then this, in turn, causes the development of the disease of a type in which arterial hypertension is malignant, characterized by rapid progression and a serious deterioration in the general condition of the patient.

Associated symptoms may include abdominal pain and pain in the lumbar region. The duration of pain manifests itself in different ways, in some cases it is about several hours, in others - about several days. Nausea and vomiting may also occur.

Diagnosis

The primary diagnosis of atherosclerosis is carried out by a therapist as part of a standard annual examination of the patient in this area. To do this, blood pressure is measured, risk factors that contribute to the development of atherosclerosis are identified, and body mass index is measured.

As a clarifying measure, the following research methods can be used:

• ECG (echocardiography) in combination with ultrasound of the aorta and heart, as well as with special stress tests;
• Invasive methods studies (coronary angiography, angiography, intravascular ultrasound);
• Duplex scanning, triplex scanning (blood flow is examined using ultrasound visualization of blood vessels);
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), which visualizes atherosclerotic plaques and artery walls.

Treatment

Treatment of atherosclerosis is based on a number of the following principles:

• impact on infectious pathogens;
• implementation of replacement therapy measures (relevant for women during menopause);
• enhancing the removal of cholesterol and its metabolites from the body;
• limiting the intake of cholesterol into the body, reducing the synthesis of cholesterol by cells.

Against this background, the lifestyle is subject to adjustments; an additional diet is prescribed, in which, as you can understand, foods containing cholesterol are subject to maximum exclusion.

Concerning drug treatment, then it is based on taking the following types of drugs:

• nicotinic acid in combination with its derivatives (providing the possibility of reducing cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, as well as increasing the content of lipoproteins with increased density);
• fibrates (drugs of this group reduce the synthesis of the body’s own fats);
• statins (provide the ability to lower cholesterol most in an efficient manner due to the impact on the processes of their production by the body itself);
• sequestrants (ensure the binding and removal of bile acids from the intestines while reducing cholesterol and fats in cells).

Atherosclerosis may require in some cases And surgical treatment, which is important in case of a serious threat or in the development of an acute form of blockage of an artery by a blood clot or plaque. To do this, an endarterectomy (open surgery on the artery) or endovascular surgery (dilatation of the artery, installation of a stent in the area of ​​narrowing, which provides an obstacle to subsequent blockage) can be performed. A severe form of atherosclerosis with damage to the vessels of the heart, against the background of which myocardial infarction can develop, requires coronary artery bypass grafting.

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Pneumonia (officially pneumonia) is inflammatory process in one or both respiratory organs, which is usually infectious in nature and is caused by various viruses, bacteria and fungi. In ancient times, this disease was considered one of the most dangerous, and although modern means Treatments allow you to get rid of the infection quickly and without consequences; the disease has not lost its relevance. According to official data, in our country every year about a million people suffer from pneumonia in one form or another.

How to clean blood vessels, or more precisely, how to remove atherosclerotic plaques, is the topic that this article will be devoted to. The circulatory system includes vessels and cavities that serve for constant circulation of blood flow. The blood fluid, in turn, carries oxygen and nutrients to the cells of the entire body. Since all food products, after undergoing processing in the gastrointestinal tract, enter the bloodstream, it is very important what a person eats. When consuming hard-to-digest animal products, sclerotic plaques accumulate on the vascular walls, and vascular atherosclerosis develops.

Concept

First, let's look at what this atherosclerosis of the vascular system is? The definition of atherosclerosis is literally translated from Greek as “mush”, “hardening”. Based on these concepts, one can judge the cause of vascular atherosclerosis. The “gruel” is harmful and excess cholesterol, as well as any fats, mainly of animal origin. But not only animal fats are the culprits of vascular sclerosis. Some vegetable oils, those that undergo the process of hydrogenation, the so-called trans fats, are no less dangerous for the human body.

Atherosclerotic plaques are also formed from frequent consumption of palm and coconut oil or products in which they are present.

From all of the above it follows that the causes of atherosclerosis are expressed in disturbances of protein and lipid metabolism. As a result, cholesterol and other lipoproteins accumulate in the vascular lumen, and atherosclerotic plaques are formed. Manifestations of the disease atherosclerosis are expressed in the proliferation of foreign tissue, a process called vascular sclerosis.

This leads to a gradual narrowing of the lumen of the bloodstream, which entails the danger of its complete closure (obturation).

There is another pathology expressed by vascular sclerosis, referred to in medicine as arteriosclerosis. The disease ranks second in prevalence among vascular sclerosis. Arteriosclerosis, first discovered by Menkeberg, is characterized by the accumulation in the middle lining of the arteries not of cholesterol, but of calcium salts. This arteriosclerosis has identical names: arteriocalcinosis, arterial calcification, mediacalcinosis of arteries and other definitions.

Atherosclerosis of the arteries and arteriosclerosis differ not only in the substance that clogs the blood vessels. But also a feature of deposits is that atherosclerotic plaques grow in the cavity of the vessel and lead to its blockage. While calcium salts, deposited in the media (media is the middle lining of the vessel), entail its stretching, a kind of protrusion of the artery (aneurysm) occurs.

Causes

The conditions and causes of plaque formation in blood vessels are often determined by external factors, lifestyle and nutrition, and physiological characteristics. Less commonly, atherosclerotic plaques arise due to acquired and especially congenital pathologies. The main cause of this disease lies, of course, in excess cholesterol. Consequently, to get rid of the external causes of vascular sclerosis, less effort will be required; it will be enough to change behavioral factors regarding food, stressful situations and bad habits.

Causes of vascular atherosclerosis:

• Are common:
  • Smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol.
  • Old age, after 50 and above.
  • Excess body weight.
  • Eating unhealthy foods.
  • Sedentary lifestyle, physical inactivity.
  • Stress and psycho-emotional tension.
  • For women, the period of menopause.
• Pathological:
  • Genetic predisposition (homocystoinuria).
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes mellitus.
  • Lack of thyroid hormones.
  • An increase in fibrinogen in the blood.
  • Excessively elevated levels of lipoproteins, lipids in the bloodstream.

Things are different if arteriosclerosis is caused by pathological processes occurring in the body. Then in the fight against atherosclerotic plaques you will have to use “heavy artillery,” to put it correct language, drug treatment. And in particularly advanced cases, you may have to resort to surgical intervention.

Subdivision

The classification of vascular atherosclerosis is carried out depending on the supposed reasons that served as the impetus for the progression of atherosclerosis of the vascular system. Medical scientists have identified the most common variants of the pathogenesis of the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.

Atherosclerosis WHO classification:

1. The metabolic atherosclerotic process develops due to hereditary and constitutional disruptions of lipid metabolism and pathologies of the endocrine system.
2. Hemodynamic atherosclerotic pathology occurs against the background of vascular pathologies, for example, arterial hypertension and other abnormalities.
3. Mixed, having a combination of the first two types to varying degrees.

Systematization of atherosclerosis depending on the affected area:

• cerebral atherosclerosis;
• heart arteries;
• atherosclerosis of the aorta;
• respiratory organs (thromboembolism);
• atherosclerotic damage to the arteries of the kidneys and intestines;
• atherosclerotic changes in the veins of the lower extremities.

Impact on the body

The consequences of vascular atherosclerosis can be fatal, because death occurs when the blood duct is completely blocked. But even during development pathological condition, cholesterol plaques in the vessels make themselves felt, greatly poisoning a full-fledged existence. Any of the previously listed classifications poses a huge danger not only to healthy well-being, but also to life and gives rise to complications of vascular atherosclerosis.

Vascular atherosclerosis complications depending on location:

• Atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels provokes complications such as paralysis, hemorrhages, failure of certain body functions (motor, visual, speech, auditory, mental and others). It also leads to ischemic stroke or otherwise cerebral infarction.
• Atherosclerosis of the heart vessels is expressed in ischemic heart disease, heart failure, hypoxia, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, sudden stop hearts, atrophic and dystrophic changes, ending in death.
• Atherosclerosis of the blood ducts in the aorta leads to systolic hypertension, aneurysm and thromboembolism of the systemic blood circulation.
• is fraught with the development of symptoms pulmonary heart, pulmonary infarction, respiratory arrest.
• Complications of atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities are dangerous due to the occurrence of intermittent claudication, gangrene of the feet and fingers, and trophic ulcers.
• Atherosclerosis of the renal vessels leads to hypertension and renal failure. Atherosclerotic abnormalities of the intestinal tract threaten necrosis of the tissues of the intestinal walls.

The consequences of vascular atherosclerosis directly depend on the stage of the pathological course. In medicine, it is customary to classify four main periods of progression of atherosclerosis: preclinical, initial, severe, and with complications. The first two periods are considered the least harmless, when you can quickly restore the healthy state of the circulatory system and prevent serious consequences.

Stages

Cholesterolosis is characterized by the gradual accumulation of cholesterol in the body. Therefore, the development of vascular atherosclerosis disease occurs progressively over many years. Cholesterolosis, as a rule, has a chronic form and stages that get worse over time. What are the stages of atherosclerosis?

Microscopic indicators of atherosclerotic changes in the circulatory system:

1. A preclinical form of pathology, when lipid stains are visible here and there on the inner layer of the vessel (intima).
2. The initial stage of atherosclerosis with mild pronounced signs, such as damage to lipid metabolism, rare atherosclerotic and fibrous plaques.
3. Pronounced symptoms of atherosclerosis are a failure of lipid metabolism, atheromatous changes in blood vessels, and developing atherocalcinosis.
4. A sharply manifested atherosclerotic pathology with consequences in the form of a critical disorder of intracellular lipid metabolism, severe atheromatosis and atherocalcinosis.

Stages of vascular atherosclerosis, morphogenesis and pathogenesis:

• Prelipidic is expressed by noticeable swelling, microthrombi in the parietal region of the veins, “ribbing” of the elastic layer of the aorta. Acid glycosaminoglycans accumulate in the intima.
• Lipoidosis, the phase is characterized by the appearance of yellow lipid marks that do not protrude above the surface of the vessels. At this stage, the pathology can not only be stopped, but also vascular atherosclerosis can be completely cured.
• Liposclerosis is caused by the beginning of the formation of an atherosclerotic plaque from connective tissue, which consists of tissue, dead mass (detritus).
• Atheromatosis is characterized by increased growth of atheromatous masses. Due to the progression of these accumulations, the atherosclerotic plaque may undergo ulceration, internal hemorrhage, and the formation of thrombotic layers. Ulceration is expressed in the appearance of atheromatous ulcers. This pathology leads to acute blockage of the vessel and infarction of the organ supplied with blood through this artery.
• Atherocalcinosis is the final and most severe stage. The phase is characterized by the petrification of the sclerotic plaque due to calcium salts. At this stage, when the patient is interested in how to cleanse blood vessels from cholesterol plaques, the answer will be in favor of surgical intervention.

At the stage of atheromatosis, in the case of thinning of the surface shell of the atherosclerotic plaque, it ruptures. And then the release of detritus into the cavity of the vessel, which leads to its blockage and entails serious consequences in the form of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke and similar complications. The second scenario is when the shell of the cholesterol plaque does not become thinner, but, on the contrary, becomes denser. This process is typical for chronic atherosclerosis, which is fraught with cardiac ischemia, discirculatory encephalopathy and others.

Diagnostics

How to diagnose vascular atherosclerosis? Only a doctor can make a diagnosis of atherosclerosis based on a comprehensive examination of the patient. Depending on the area of ​​the circulatory system affected by atherosclerotic changes, examination by different specialists will be required. For example, in order to find out how to cure atherosclerosis of the heart vessels, you need to contact a cardiologist. If cerebral vascular atherosclerosis is observed, treatment will be carried out by a neurologist. A nephrologist will recommend how to get rid of atherosclerosis of the renal vessels. You will have to ask a vascular surgeon how to remove cholesterol plaques in the aorta, intestines or lower extremities.

Diagnosis of vascular atherosclerosis consists of the following measures:

• Visual examination of the patient to identify signs of atherosclerosis.
• Find out the symptoms that are troubling him.
• Feeling (palpation) of the arteries.
• Determination of the density of arterial walls.
• Taking blood samples for tests for vascular atherosclerosis, including clarification:
  • cholesterol levels;
  • triglyceride content;
  • lipid metabolism indicators;
  • atherogenic coefficient.
• Auscultation of the heart vessels reveals systolic murmurs.

Atherosclerosis diagnostics using instrumental methods:

• Dopplerography (ultrasound examination) and rheovasography of the veins of the lower extremities.
• Ultrasound of the abdominal region and cardiac zone.
• Coronography and aortography.
• Magnetic resonance therapy (MRI) will allow you to view artery walls in great detail to detect atherosclerotic formations and determine the stage of the pathological process.
• Chest X-ray and other tests recommended by your doctor.

Diagnosing atherosclerosis of the vascular system is not an easy task, since the disease often occurs without symptoms and does not bother the person in any way. The insidiousness of atherosclerotic pathology lies precisely in the fact that it is detected already when characteristic indicators of vascular atherosclerosis are present. At this point, irreversible processes often develop in the patient’s body, which require either drastic measures, that is, surgical intervention. Or long-term drug treatment of not only atherosclerotic disease. But also the consequences of the impact of pathology on organs and systems that have become damaged as a result of atherosclerosis.

Symptoms

Signs of vascular atherosclerosis begin to reveal themselves closer to the second stage of the pathology. That is, between the period of appearance of lipid stains and initial stage formation of cholesterol plaques.

The first signs indicating atherosclerotic processes in the vessels are not specific symptoms and may indicate other pathologies.

Therefore, the study of the clinical picture of atherosclerosis occurs in conjunction with the damaged area. Atherosclerosis symptoms and treatment should be carried out in accordance with the location of the lesion in a particular organ.

Symptoms of vascular atherosclerosis are divided depending on:

• Atherosclerotic manifestations in the brain occur with certain symptoms:
  • cephalgia, feeling of clouding of consciousness, fainting;
  • hypertension accompanied by tinnitus;
  • disturbance of sleep phases, expressed in difficulty falling asleep and drowsiness during daylight hours;
  • mental disorders, irritability, nervousness;
  • severe fatigue not associated with appropriate loads;
  • failures in the speech apparatus;
  • problems with orientation in space and coordination of movements;
  • deterioration of memory and memorization of various events;
  • shortness of breath, shortness of breath, pain in the lungs.
• Coronary atherosclerosis can be judged by such signs as:
  • pain in the chest with an echo in the left area of ​​the body in front and from the back;
  • feeling of heaviness in the sternum;
  • change in the normal rhythm of the heart towards faster or weaker;
  • pressing, dull pain in lower jaw with impact on left ear and neck area;
  • clouding of consciousness to the point of fainting;
  • weakness in the limbs, chills, cold, increased sweating.
• Atherosclerotic changes in the cardiac aorta are characterized by the following symptoms:
  • burning sensation in the chest;
  • frequent increase in systolic blood pressure;
  • states of dizziness;
  • difficulty swallowing while eating;
  • detection of a large number of wen, especially in the face area;
  • severe graying and external aging, unusual for age;
  • abundant growth of hair in the ears.
• Atherosclerotic formations in the abdominal organs are expressed by the following symptoms:
  • In the abdominal aorta, cholesterol plaques make themselves felt by disturbances in bowel movements, unreasonable loss of body weight, an aching feeling after eating, and increased gas formation. Hypertension, renal failure, and abdominal pain that do not respond to painkillers are also sometimes observed.
  • In the mesenteric arteries of the intestine, symptoms manifest themselves as increased pain after eating, bloating, vomiting, and nausea.
  • In the renal arteries, the presence of cholesterol plaques is indicated by kidney failure and arterial hypertension.
• Atherosclerosis of the lower extremities is characterized by the following symptoms:
  • paleness of the body in the area where cholesterol plaques are located in the blood ducts of the legs;
  • feeling of numbness and “pins and needles” after being in an uncomfortable or for a long time unchanged position;
  • chilliness of hands and feet.

Vascular atherosclerosis symptoms and treatment are more productive if it is carried out in conjunction with therapy of the affected organ or system. The process of formation of atherosclerotic plaques can rather be attributed not to a disease, but to a lifestyle. In fact, this is true, like many other pathologies. Therefore, people aimed at the full treatment of vascular atherosclerosis need to be prepared for fundamental changes regarding physical activity, dietary features, and definitely get rid of bad habits, we are talking about smoking and alcohol. Eliminating harmful factors from your life is already half the success on the path to cleansing blood vessels from cholesterol plaques.

Treatment

Almost 100% of the population suffers from atherosclerotic changes in blood vessels to one degree or another, especially people who have crossed the 30-year mark. In view of this medical workers are concerned about the prevention and early diagnosis of atherosclerosis. And many people are interested in whether it is possible to cure atherosclerosis and how to get rid of cholesterol plaques?

It is possible to completely cure vascular atherosclerosis, as mentioned earlier, only before the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. It is impossible to answer unequivocally how to get rid of plaques; a detailed consideration of the issue will be required. The only thing that can be said right away is that each clinical case of atherosclerosis is unique. Because the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic pathology is different, and each patient’s health potential is different, the same therapy for atherosclerosis results in a lot of reactions from the body.

When considering the question of how to treat vascular atherosclerosis, it is necessary to highlight several areas:

• Medications.
• Surgically.
• Through alternative medicine.
• Adhering to cholesterol-free diets.
• Through sporting events.
• Giving up bad habits.

Drug therapy

Doctors often use for full-scale and successful treatment of atherosclerosis A complex approach. Removing the initial atherosclerotic symptoms may be limited to eliminating foods rich in cholesterol from the daily diet, or normalizing the level of a fat-like substance. Gentle therapy is justified only in the preclinical phase of vascular atherosclerosis; treatment of the next clinical phase of lipoidosis, and especially the rest, should be carried out using drug therapy.

Treatment of cholesterol plaques is aimed at achieving:

• Normalization of blood pressure.
• Corrections of lipid metabolism.
• Controlling blood sugar levels.
• Maintaining normal general metabolism.

In accordance with the effect they have on the development of atherosclerosis, drugs are divided into several main classes:

• Reducing the production of triglycerides and cholesterol in the liver and at the same time lowering the concentration of these substances in the bloodstream. These drugs include bile acid sequestrants.
• Blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the circulatory system. Such drugs include:
  • The first group is anion exchange resins (IA) and plant sorbents (IB).
  • The second group is statins (IIA), fibrates (IIB), nicotinic acid (IIC), probucol (IID).
• Stimulating the destruction and utilization of lipoproteins and atherogenic lipids. These healing substances include unsaturated fatty acids.
• Endotheliotropic drugs are prescribed as auxiliary drugs to treat cholesterol plaques.

It is advisable to remove cholesterol plaques surgically only if potential danger occlusion of a vessel when a cholesterol plaque comes off. In other situations, it is better to treat atherosclerosis with pharmaceuticals. In addition to medications, a low-cholesterol diet is recommended, and it is also possible to use traditional medicine for atherosclerosis.

Traditional therapy

Traditional medicine has not always been as developed as it is today. Therefore, people massively used the gifts of nature to heal atherosclerosis. Atherosclerotic lesions vessels are no exception. Often, only through the systematic use of certain ingredients was it possible to completely cure vascular atherosclerosis.

Cleansing blood vessels from cholesterol plaques with natural ingredients:

• Garlic.
• Lemon.
• Walnut.
• Carrots (fresh juice) and many other crops.

Atherosclerosis of blood vessels is excellently treated, and blood vessels are cleared of plaques, using a composition that has been tested by many people and consists of the main atherosclerotic components - lemon and garlic. To prepare the mixture for atherosclerosis, you will need a head of garlic and lemon. Grind the ingredients thoroughly (lemon along with zest) and place in a glass container. Pour the gruel with pre-boiled and cooled water in the amount of half a liter.

Place the drug against atherosclerosis in a dark place to infuse for three days. After the required time has passed, the mixture can be taken on an empty stomach, two tablespoons. The course can be repeated; cleansing the circulatory system from manifestations of atherosclerosis thanks to this method occurs in a mild form, simultaneously restoring the entire body. There are many recipes for preparing natural medicines for atherosclerosis; you just need to choose the right one. How to deal with atherosclerosis is a personal matter for everyone, the main thing is that this pathological process is curable.

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