Question 1

is atherosclerosis contagious?

Accepted Answer

No, but...: Atherosclerosis is dominant human behavior in all first world countries, less so in third world countries - other physical health problems are a bigger issues there. Atherosclerosis typically starts in childhood yet typically remains asymptomatic for many decades, until plaque ruptures, clots and/or aneurysms develop. However, atherosclerosis is clearly more common in some families than others.

Question 2

can atherosclerosis be cured?

Accepted Answer

No: Medications and life style changes can prevent it from progressing and at times cause some regression, but will not cure it.

Question 3

is atherosclerosis hereditary?

Accepted Answer

It can be: Yes, atherosclerosis, cholesterol and many other factors can be hereditary - there is a genetic factor - but that is not the end of the story.  Smoking, diabetes, overweight/obesity, diet, exercise, cholesterol control (i.e. The preceeding and medications) can influence the progress of atherosclerosis.  1st: know you numbers, 2nd: control the aforementioned factors and take your rx(s).

Question 4

how can atherosclerosis be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Atherosclerosis: By controlling the risks :
1. Treat high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol/triglycerides, diabetes.
2. Quit smoking
3. Lose weight if obese, exercise regularly
4. Healthy diet.

Question 5

what are hazards of atherosclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Un-timely death: I am not trying to be dramatic but if atherosclerosis, which is a progressive disease, is allowed to continue without any remediation, the arteries will become blocked and, in the heart, this will cause ischemia and ultimately muscle death. Atherosclerosis also progresses in the rest of the body and can cause loss of limb.  Fortunately you can partner with your doctor to slow/stop it.

Question 6

what makes atherosclerosis dangerous?

Accepted Answer

The end result: Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease that involves all the arterial systems of the body, the brain, the heart, the kidneys, the gut and the limbs.  As it progresses, it causes reduction of blood flow to these areas chronically, and the end organ becomes a target for embolization of the plaque or blood clot caused by atherosclerosis on an acute basis.

Question 7

what sort of problem is atherosclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Hardening of arterie: Atherosclerosis is the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, a common cause of stroke, angnia, ami etc.

Question 8

what are the symptoms of atherosclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Many or none: Many symptoms. The most common are chest pain, shortness of breath, jaw pain, arm pain, sweating, fatigue, abdominal pain, leg pain, dizziness and also back pain. Sometimes atherosclerosis is a stealth disease and there are no symptoms.

Question 9

what are the characteristics of atherosclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Plaque build up: It is hardening of the arteries, caused by fat, cholesterol, and other substances building up in the arteries  - this is called plaque - making the arteries stiffer.  This plaque interferes with the normal function of the arteries and can cause problems and symptoms throughout the body.  The plaque can block the arteries and/or it can break off and flow to smaller vessels and block them.

Question 10

what individuals are at risk for atherosclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Risk factors: Obese, smokers, diabetics, those with high blood pressure, those with family history, high cholesterol, low good cholesterol, stress, high triglycerides, couch potatoes, old people, men, .

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