What is atherosclerosis? »Its Definition and Meaning [2019]

Atherosclerosis, includes the obstruction of the arteries due to the accumulation of bad fat, cholesterol and other substances in the walls of these.Such deposits are called "plaques." Through the time , such plaques can narrow the cavity of the arteries or obstruct completely causing major problems at level of organism throughout the body.This condition is quite common, since worldwide poor nutrition is a problem that is spreading more and more, being even the first cause of death in many nations.

The causes that influence the hardening of the arteries come from aging.As a person matures, the accumulation of these plaques manages to make the arteries more rigid and narrow , thus hindering the flow of blood through it.Clot formation also forms part of this condition, since these prevent blood flow freely.Even if the person has a strong blood flow, pieces of plaque that move to the smallest blood vessels can be detached and block them.These blockages are able to deprive to the tissues of blood and oxygen which can cause great damage in the organism, even to a tissue death (decrease of tissues and oxygen that produces irreversible damage and death thereof ).

It is also a quite common cause of heart attacks and strokes (stroke-stroke).High cholesterol levels, adds to the hardening of the arteries that may appear at an early age, since for many people the high level of cholesterol is the result of a diet high in saturated fats and harmful to the human body.Some factors that contribute to atherosclerosis are:

• Diab etes .
• Family history of atherosclerosis.
• Hypertension.
• Lack of exercise.
• Overweight .
• Smoking.

Basically this condition has no symptoms that give notice to the person suffering from it , simply blood flow in one part of the body becomes slow or blocked, causing tissue death.In the case of the arteries of the heart they narrow causing thoracic pain and difficulty breathing.kidneys, legs and brain can also be blocked and cause problems at the organic level when this condition occurs.

The most recommended in case of medical attention, is to carry out a series of studies and Physical exams on a constant basis, especially for overweight or elderly people.Atherosclerosis can produce a whistle or blow over the artery which detects the condition.Treatment is based on lifestyle that reduce the risks of suffering or worsening the obstruction of the veins , some measures that can be taken are:

• Quit smoking.
• Avoid fatty foods .
• Reduce the amount of alcohol you consume.
• Get regular physical activity.