Atherosclerosis: Open Access
Open Access

Atherosclerosis, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is a progressive condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing and hardening them. This can lead to reduced blood flow to vital organs and increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Early detection of atherosclerosis is essential, but the condition often progresses without symptoms until it reaches a more advanced stage. In this article, we’ll explore the early signs of atherosclerosis, how it develops, and the importance of awareness in preventing its dangerous consequences [1].

Description

Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease that begins when the inner walls of the arteries become damaged. Factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes contribute to the damage, causing the formation of fatty deposits, or plaques, on the artery walls. Over time, these plaques can harden, narrowing the arteries and restricting blood flow [2].

Early stages of atherosclerosis

In the initial stages, atherosclerosis often shows no signs or symptoms. This is why it’s often referred to as the “silent” condition. The process of plaque buildup may occur over years or even decades before any noticeable symptoms develop. During this early period, atherosclerosis may not cause pain, making it difficult for individuals to detect [3].

However, there are subtle early signs that can hint at the presence of the disease:

• Fatigue: As blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain is compromised, individuals may begin to feel fatigued more easily, even with minimal exertion.
• Shortness of breath: The reduced ability of the arteries to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the heart or lungs can cause shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity.
• Chest discomfort or pain: While chest pain (angina) is typically associated with advanced atherosclerosis, mild discomfort or tightness in the chest during exertion or stress can be an early sign of narrowing arteries.
• Leg pain or cramping: Atherosclerosis can affect the arteries that supply blood to the legs. This can cause pain or cramping, particularly during physical activity, a condition known as intermittent claudication.
• Dizziness or light-headedness: Reduced blood flow to the brain can cause dizziness or fainting spells, especially during periods of physical exertion.

Risk factors and prevention

Several risk factors contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. These include:

• High cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure damages the artery walls, making it easier for plaque to form.
• Smoking: Smoking accelerates plaque buildup by causing inflammation in the arteries and promoting the formation of clots [4].
• Diabetes: Diabetes increases the risk of atherosclerosis due to the high levels of glucose in the blood, which can damage blood vessels.
• Family history: Genetics also play a significant role, as individuals with a family history of heart disease are at a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis [5].

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial in preventing and slowing the progression of atherosclerosis. Key prevention strategies include:

• Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels [6].
• Regular exercise: Physical activity helps keep the heart and arteries in good condition and lowers blood pressure.
• Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases [7].
• Managing blood pressure and cholesterol: Regular checkups and medications, when necessary, can help control blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity is a major risk factor, so maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is crucial [8].

Conclusion

Atherosclerosis is a dangerous yet preventable condition that can lead to severe cardiovascular complications if left unchecked. Because it often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, individuals must be vigilant about recognizing subtle warning signs such as fatigue, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath. By understanding the risks and early symptoms, along with adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, individuals can take proactive steps toward reducing their risk and ensuring long-term cardiovascular health. Regular screenings and medical advice can go a long way in detecting atherosclerosis early and preventing its potentially life-threatening effects.

Acknowledgement

None

Conflict of Interest

None

References

1. Zhang L, Reynolds KL, Lyon AR, Palaskas N, Neilan TG (2021) The evolving immunotherapy landscape and the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of cardiotoxicity. J Am Coll Cardiol Cardio Onc 3: 35-47.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

2. A Ribas, Wolchok JD (2018) Cancer immunotherapy using checkpoint blockade. Science 359: 1350-1355.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

3. Haslam A, Gill J, Prasad V (2020) Estimation of the percentage of US patients with cancer who are eligible for immune checkpoint inhibitor drugs. JAMA Net Open 3: 423.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

4. Chen DS, Mellman I (2017) Elements of cancer immunity and the cancer-immune set point. Nature 541: 321-330.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

5. Tang J, Shalabi A, Hubbard-Lucey VM (2018) Comprehensive analysis of the clinical immuno-oncology landscape. Ann Oncol 29: 84-91.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

6. Upadhaya S, Neftelinov ST, Hodge J (2022) Campbell Challenges and opportunities in the PD1/PDL1 inhibitor clinical trial landscape. Nat Rev Drug Discov 21: 482-483.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

7. Tang J, Yu JX, Hubbard-Lucey VM, Neftelinov ST, Hodge JP, et al. (2018) Trial watch: The clinical trial landscape for PD1/PDL1 immune checkpoint inhibitors. Nat Rev Drug Discov 17: 854-855.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref

8. Haslam A, Prasad V (2019) Estimation of the percentage of US patients with cancer who are eligible for and respond to checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy drugs. JAMA Net Open 2: 535.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Crossref