Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fat in the wall of the arteries, which forms atheromatous plaques that hinder blood flow to blood vessels. Several times, it is associated with an increase in “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and “good” cholesterol. (HDL) levels.
Treatment for atherosclerosis is used to reduce these fat plaques that are retained in the walls of the arteries and heal wounds that form at the site. This can be achieved through the use of medications, surgery and, mainly, lifestyle changes.
Learn more about the causes and symptoms of atherosclerosis
In most cases, treating atherosclerosis involves changing lifestyles, which helps healthy habits reduce the risk of developing other heart disease.
Food should be based on the consumption of fats, sweets, pastas and alcoholic beverages and should be rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, cereals and olive oil, as a healthy diet has been associated with heart health benefits, for example, the Mediterranean diet. , which is based on the consumption of natural foods and some industrialized products, has been associated with the reduction of cardiovascular disease.
Exercise helps control weight and this promotes the absence of fat formation in the arteries of the heart. Physical activity also helps improve blood circulation and promotes the formation of healthy blood vessels.
Cigarette use causes damage to the body, triggers inflammatory reactions and also hardens blood vessels, damaging circulation, the way quitting smoking helps lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Medications for atherosclerosis should be indicated by the cardiologist after evaluation of the person’s exams, health status and lifestyle. Examples of atherosclerosis medications include:
It is important to follow the cardiologist’s instructions when using these medicines, such as appropriate dosages and correct schedules. In addition to the use of medications, it is also necessary to change lifestyle and diet, to avoid the consequences of atherosclerosis.
Many times, when medications fail to reduce the plasterboard of the arterial wall, surgery is needed to remove this fat. The types of surgery to treat atherosclerosis depend on the technique used, as well as the severity of the disease. Stenting is a type of surgery performed in these cases, in which your doctor places a stent on a clogged wall to open the artery and facilitate blood flow.
Another surgery indicated for atherosclerosis is the safena vein, that is, when your doctor handles an artery blocked by your heart through a vein in your leg, catheterization may also be performed that involves inserting a tube (catheter) to unlock your heart artery.
More details on how cardiac catheterization is performed
There are many natural products available to combat atherosclerosis, as most of these substances help lower cholesterol and ultimately reduce atheroma plaques in the arteries, making it easier for blood circulation.
These substances are found in foods, but may also be available in capsules to be taken as dietary supplements, however, it is always important to always follow medical instructions and follow the recommendations of the professional herbalist for the use of these capsules.
There are other foods and products that help in the treatment of atherosclerosis, facilitate blood circulation and prevent obstruction of blood vessels, such as buckwheat, red wine, Asian cactus and Indian variety.
Treatments for atherosclerosis are based on medication use and lifestyle changes, when performed, help reduce fatigue, increase physical preparation, reduce stress and lose weight.
Often, atherosclerosis has no symptoms, however, in cases where fat completely clogs an artery, some symptoms may appear that depend on the location of the fat-blocked artery and the disease caused by this complication. an artery in your heart, an acute myocardial infarction and symptoms such as pain and oppression on the left side, numbness of the brain, and discomfort may occur.
Learn more about heart attack symptoms
Even so, if there is a compromise in the cerebral artery, signs such as difficulty speaking, crooked mouth, or difficulty seeing may appear. In these cases, it is necessary to get to the hospital quickly to seek the care of a cardiologist.