Atherosclerosis, a disease associated with the deposition of fatty deposits in the walls of the arteries, for many years was considered a condition that mainly affected the elderly. However, in recent decades there has been a disturbing trend: atherosclerotic lesions are increasingly being diagnosed in young people. Is this just a passing fad for diseases of civilization, or are we actually dealing with a new reality? To answer this question, it is necessary to take a closer look at the causes, symptoms and consequences of atherosclerosis at a young age.
Atherosclerosis – what is it and how does it arise?
Atherosclerosis is a chronic process that develops over many years. Initially, small lesions appear in the walls of the arteries, to which fat molecules, blood cells and other substances begin to attach. Over time, so-called atherosclerotic plaques form, which narrow the lumen of the arteries, impeding blood flow. The rupture of such a plaque can lead to the formation of clots that clog blood vessels, causing a heart attack or stroke.
Risk factors for atherosclerosis at a young age
Traditionally, the main risk factors for atherosclerosis have been considered:
- Age: The older we are, the greater the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
- Gender: Men are more prone to the disease than women, especially before menopause.
- Smoking: Nicotine damages blood vessel walls and accelerates the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure damages the walls of the arteries and promotes the accumulation of fats in them.
- Elevated cholesterol levels: So-called “bad” LDL cholesterol is particularly dangerous.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels damage blood vessel walls.
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases the risk of many diseases, including atherosclerosis.
- Not very active lifestyle: L ack of regular physical activity contributes to the development of many diseases of civilization.
- Unhealthy diet: Eating a lot of saturated fat, simple sugars and salt promotes atherosclerosis.
- Stress: Long-term stress causes hormonal disturbances that can accelerate atherosclerosis.
However, in recent years, it has become increasingly clear that young people are also exposed to these risk factors. Unhealthy eating habits, sedentary lifestyles, excessive stress and smoking have become commonplace among young people. As a result, we are seeing an increase in the number of young people who are overweight, obese, have type 2 diabetes and hypertension – major risk factors for atherosclerosis.
Symptoms of atherosclerosis at a young age
Unfortunately, atherosclerosis can be asymptomatic for a long time. The first symptoms often appear when the disease is already advanced and there is narrowing or clogging of the arteries. Symptoms can vary widely and depend on which organs are affected by atherosclerosis. The most common symptoms are:
- Chest pain: It can occur during physical exertion or at rest and is a sign of ischemic heart disease.
- Dizziness, headache: May be caused by cerebral ischemia.
- Weakness, fatigue: Are often underestimated, but can be the first sign of serious health problems.
- Visual disturbances: May be indicative of atherosclerosis of the arteries supplying the brain.
- Leg pains when walking: Are characteristic of atherosclerosis of the arteries of the lower extremities.
Consequences of atherosclerosis at a young age
Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease that can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Myocardial infarction: This is a sudden ischemia of the heart muscle that can lead to death.
- Stroke: This is a sudden interruption of the blood supply to the brain that can cause permanent brain damage or death.
- Ischemic heart disease: This is chronic hypoxia of the heart muscle that leads to reduced physical performance and increases the risk of heart attack.
- Aneurysm: This is a local expansion of the artery wall that can rupture, causing internal bleeding.
- Arterial embolism: This is the blockage of an artery by a blood clot that has detached from the atherosclerotic plaque.
Diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis
The diagnosis of atherosclerosis is based on medical history, physical examination and additional tests, such as:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Allows you to assess your heart function.
- Cardiac echo: Allows assessment of the structure and function of the heart.
- Blood test: Determination of cholesterol, sugar, liver enzymes and other inflammatory markers.
- Ultrasound examination of the arteries: Allows assessment of the degree of arterial stenosis.
- Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR): Provides detailed images of blood vessels.
Treatment of atherosclerosis depends on the severity of the disease and the presence of complications. It includes:
- Lifestyle changes: quitting smoking, healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight.
- Pharmacotherapy: Cholesterol-lowering drugs, antihypertensive drugs, antidiabetic drugs, blood-thinning drugs.
- Invasive procedures: Angioplasty, stent, bypass.
Atherosclerosis prevention
The most important form of atherosclerosis prevention is a healthy lifestyle. It is worth remembering that many risk factors can be modified. Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking and regular medical check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Summary
Atherosclerotic lesions in young people are a serious health problem that requires our attention. Although genetics plays a role, it is primarily our eating habits and lifestyle that determine whether we will get healthy or sick. By taking care of our health from a young age, we can significantly reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis and its dangerous complications.
Note:
The above article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for consulting a doctor. If you have any doubts about your health, consult a specialist.
