Arteriosclerosis and High Blood Pressure
The human vascular system is a complicated mechanism that constantly keeps our blood in circulation. One of the main components is the arteries, the blood vessels that carry fresh, oxygenated blood to our organs. Under normal conditions, these arteries are flexible and can change diameter to increase or decrease blood pressure, as required. Arteriosclerosis is the medical term for any condition that can cause a person’s arteries to loose elasticity and ‘harden’. The most common form is arthrosclerosis, where fatty material (such as cholesterol) or calcium deposits are trapped in the walls of the arteries. This obstructs the normal flow of blood and can contribute to complications like hypertension (high blood pressure) and coronary heart disease.
In most people, the effects of arthrosclerosis are first observed in the narrower arteries of the peripheral vascular system, including legs and feet. In general, men over fifty are the main high risk group, though the degree of risk increases in people with a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension. Medical experts advise such people to undergo regular testing to help identify arthrosclerosis at an early stage. A common diagnostic tool is an electrocardiogram (ECG) that measures the electrical activity of the heart to evaluate any strain on the heart muscle. An ECG is also used in the exercise stress test, where a person is asked to exercise on a treadmill or stationary bicycle to increase the heart rate. If arthrosclerosis is suspected, doctors carry out further tests such as an echocardiogram that is an ultrasound imaging technique to observe blood flow in the heart, and magnetic resonance arteriography or MRA, which images blood vessels to observe any blockages.
Most arthrosclerosis patients can control their blood pressure and prevent further damage to the arteries by adopting a healthier lifestyle. Cholesterol levels can be kept in check with a planned diet and regular exercise, both of which also help to decrease the risk of hypertension and diabetes. In some cases, doctors will prescribe medication to help keep the arteries wide enough for healthy blood flow. At an advanced condition, a surgery called angioplasty is conducted to enter and clean blocked arteries. The good news is that timely prevention can help you completely avoid this dangerous condition. A diet low in cholesterol, fat, and salt can dramatically reduce the risk of arthrosclerosis. Many dieticians advise people to have fish (non-fried) at least once a week, or take a fish oil substitute. Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day and avoid alcohol and cigarettes.
