How to Identify Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fatty deposits and cholesterol build up in the arteries which can reduce blood flow. As people age the arteries can harden and become narrow restricting blood flow even more. Pieces of plaque can break loose, blood clots can form blocking arteries which in turn could cause a stroke or other serious conditions. Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease that may unfortunately be asymptomatic, which means there are no noticeable symptoms until the disease is fairly advanced. Certain factors may put a person at a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis. Those risk factors include smoking, obesity, advanced age, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, lifestyle and heredity. Listed below are the potential warning signs that can help you to identify atherosclerosis.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for headaches. Although headaches may have many causes such as stress or eyestrain chronic headaches could also be a sign of constricting or hardening of the arteries.

• 2

  Notice if there is any memory loss. Reduced blood flow through the arteries of the brain can lead to the inability to concentrate or focus as well as memory loss. People often think they are just getting absent-minded when brief lapses of memory could have an underlying cause such as atherosclerosis.

• 3

  Observe whether there is chest pain. When plaque builds in the arteries of the heart and blood flow is reduced chest pain can occur. A person suffering from chest pain should see a physician since chest pain can be a warning sign of impending heart attack.

• 4

  Keep tabs on your blood pressure.High blood pressure often accompanies conditions such as atherosclerosis. If you have high blood pressure it should be monitored closely and any medications should be taken as prescribed.

• 5

  Notice whether there is an increase in fatigue. Reduced blood flow through the arteries can cause a person to be tired all the time without knowing why.

• 6

  Monitor your cholesterol. High cholesterol levels are one of the main warning signs associated with atherosclerosis. If your cholesterol levels are high you should have it checked often and talk to your doctor about steps you can take to reduce high cholesterol levels.

• 7

  Observe whether you experience muscle aches. Reduced blood flow through the arteries in the extremeties may cause pain or cramps in your arms or legs. See your doctor if you experience frequent muscle pain or cramps such as leg cramps that often occur in the muscles of the calves. This coud be a sign of atherosclerosis.