Arteriosclerosis is thickening or stiffening of the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients from heart to rest of the body. Atherosclerosis is a type of Arteriosclerosis, sometimes used interchangeably. This is slow and progressive disease caused by damage or injury to inner layers of arteries. The factors that may trigger the damage may be due to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, excess fat substances in blood, smoking, diabetes and infections. The symptoms may vary depending on the artery affected.
Some of the symptoms of Arteriosclerosis:
- Chest pain or pressure (arteries leading to heart)
- Sudden numbness in arms or legs or speech problems (arteries leading to brain)
- Leg pain while walking (arteries leading to arms and legs)
- High blood pressure of kidney failure (arteries leading to kidneys)
- Sexual problems (arteries leading to genitals)
When should you consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor if you have signs of atherosclerosis and also pay attention to symptoms like chest pain, leg pain or numbness. Early diagnosis can prevent from heart attack or any medical emergency.
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