What is Atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis (arteriosclerosis) is a disease that occurs as a result of deterioration of the structure of the arteries and causes vascular occlusion. Atherosclerosis occurs as a result of the artery losing its elastic structure and the deterioration of its smooth internal structure, causing narrowing of the artery. Plaques, which form as a result of the accumulation of substances such as cholesterol, fat cells, protein, etc. in the vessels, can cause blockage in the vessels in different parts of the body, causing various problems such as stroke, heart attack, and occlusion in the leg vessels. Coronary vascular diseases may occur if atherosclerosis affects the coronary vessels that feed the heart, and it is an important disease because it can sometimes cause a heart attack.

Atherosclerosis Risk Factors

Deterioration of the internal structure of the vessels called endothelium and the accumulation of structures called plaques there are among the main causes of atherosclerosis. However, some habits or lifestyles have also been identified as risk factors for atherosclerosis. Risk factors that cause atherosclerosis can be listed as follows:

• Genetic causes
• Hypertension
• high cholesterol
• Diabetes
• smoking
• Unhealthy eating
• excess weight
• still life
• Stress

Considering that atherosclerosis can cause serious consequences such as paralysis, stroke and heart attack, it is extremely important to diagnose it in time, follow the patient closely and apply the necessary treatment. However, the patient must fulfill the recommendations recommended to him, which is called patient compliance, and continue his life by paying attention to risk factors.