How does atherosclerosis affect the patients mental or psychological outlook?

Varies: Many patients get depressed when they learn that they have health problems and need to take medication. Others do not. I try to encourage patients to look on the positive side. Lucky that you have been diagnoses so that we can deal with the problem and prevent complications.

Delirium possible: 90% of patients experience delirium (brief psychosis often associated with hospitalization) after a cardiotomy (heart surgery procedure). Preventative measures can include: orienting the hospital patient to the time of day by opening curtains in the room, put up a calendar, and bring familiar objects or pictures from home.

Dementia: Atherosclerosis can lead to gradual loss of brain function and dementia (multi infarct dementia). Dementia can be associated with behavioral and mood disturbance.