Atherosclerosis

Alternative names:

arteriosclerosis; hardening of the arteries

Treatment:

To some extent, the body will protect itself by forming new blood vessels (collateral circulation) around the affected area.

Medications may be recommended to reduce blood fats/cholesterol. These include medications such as cholestyramine, colestipol, nicotinic acid, gemfibrozil, probucol, lovastatin, and others. Aspirin (which inhibits platelet clumping) or anticoagulants may be used to reduce risk of clot formation.

Balloon angioplasty uses a balloon-tipped catheter to flatten plaque and increase blood flow past the occlusion. The technique is similar to that used to open the arteries of the heart, but it can be applied to many other arteries in the body. Surgical removal of deposits (endarterectomy) may be recommended in some cases (example--carotid endarterectomy).

Treat or control risk factors:
Diet recommendations may include low-fat, low-cholesterol, and low-salt diet. Follow the health care provider's recommendations for treatment and control of hypertension, diabetes, and other diseases. Reduce body weight if overweight and stop smoking if a smoker. Get regular exercise to improve the fitness of the heart and circulation.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. Atherosclerosis is usually progressive and frequently leads to complications.

Complications:

• coronary artery disease (atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries)
• deficiency of blood supply due to obstruction (ischemia/angina)
• acute MI
• transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke
• damage to blood vessels, muscles, or body organs

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with the health care provider if you are at risk for atherosclerosis, particularly if symptoms of complications occur.