What Is Atherosclerosis: 8 Factors That Bring It On
The accumulation of fatty substances inside your arteries is known as atherosclerosis, explains American Heart Association.
The deposits consist of fats, cholesterol, calcium, cellular debris, fibrin and over time these substances build up on the arteries' inner walls, leading to narrowing, AHA further explains.
These fatty buildups, which limit, or fully obstruct, circulation in medium or large arteries throughout the body, are caused by 8 factors, says the American Heart Association, that one need to always monitor to protect one's heart.
1. High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that's essential for building cells, but too much LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the blood can lead to plaque buildup in artery walls, states Mayo Clinic.
2. High Blood Pressure
According to Cleveland Clinic, high blood pressure damages the inner lining of arteries, making them more vulnerable to cholesterol and plaque buildup.
3. Smoking
Chemicals in cigarette smoke cause inflammation and damage to blood vessels, lower HDL, and raise LDL. Smoking also causes blood clotting, which can further block narrowed arteries, triggering a heart attack, according to Healthline.
4. Diabetes
Diabetes, especially Type 2 diabetes increases blood sugar levels, which over time can damage blood vessel linings. It also contributes to increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels. People with diabetes are at much higher risk of heart disease, states Mayo Clinic & WebMD.
5. Obesity
Medical News Today states, excess body fat, especially around the waist, increases levels of LDL while lowering HDL cholesterol. Obesity is also associated with high blood pressure and insulin resistance, both of which are atherogenic.
6. Sedentary Lifestyle
No exercise or movement is associated with weight gain, poor lipid profiles, and higher blood pressure, all of which contribute to atherosclerosis, states Cleveland Clinic.
7. Unhealthy Diet
Diets rich in trans fats, added sugars, processed foods raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels. High salt intake also raises blood pressure, says Mayo Clinic. These dietary patterns collectively promote plaque formation in arteries, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
8. Genetic Predisposition
Your risk of developing atherosclerosis is higher if your parents or close relatives had heart disease, especially at a young age, says Healthline.