Atherosclerosis is the gradual narrowing and hardening of the arteries caused by plaque buildup, which can reduce or block blood flow and limit the delivery of oxygen to vital organs and tissues.
Atherosclerosis occurs when plaque, made up of cholesterol, fat, and other substances in the blood, accumulates along the inner walls of the arteries. Over time, this buildup causes the arteries to narrow and stiffen, restricting normal blood flow.
Because oxygen-rich blood is essential for organ and muscle function, reduced circulation can lead to tissue damage and impaired function throughout the body. As plaque continues to build, the risk of serious cardiovascular and vascular complications increases.
Atherosclerosis develops gradually, and symptoms may not appear until blood flow is significantly reduced. Common signs and symptoms include:
Lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, and risk factor management are often the first line of defense against atherosclerosis. When blood flow is significantly restricted, medication or vascular procedures may be recommended to restore circulation and reduce the risk of complications.
Common Treatments: Angioplasty & Stenting
Atherosclerosis can contribute to several serious vascular conditions. The team at Dakota Vascular provides evaluation and treatment for a range of atherosclerosis-related diseases, including abdominal aortic aneurysm, carotid artery disease, and peripheral artery disease.
As plaque builds up in arteries causing atherosclerosis, it can also lead to an abdominal aortic aneurysm. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a weak, bulged area in the wall of the aorta, the main artery that delivers blood to your lower body. The weak area is a result of the pressure plaque exerts on the aorta wall over time.
Once started, aneurysms grow in size and become weaker. Left unmonitored and untreated, they can rupture and cause hemorrhaging or severe internal bleeding.
Generally, an aortic abdominal aneurysm is discovered during an exam for another health concern. Its symptoms can be masked by other conditions; however, there are some specific signs that you have an abdominal aneurysm.
Prior to rupture, symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm are:
Signs of a ruptured aneurysm are:
If you believe you have a ruptured aneurysm, seek immediate medical attention.
Once begun, abdominal aneurysms cannot be reversed with supplements or medications; however, their growth can be slowed by exercise, a healthy diet, and medication to lower blood pressure. The best surgical and non-surgical treatments for your specific condition are determined by your doctor.
Common Treatments: Aortic Stent Grafting
The carotid arteries transfer blood and oxygen to the brain. When plaque builds up in these essential arteries, they become narrowed, restricting the amount of nutrients and oxygen that reach the brain and depriving it of the essentials it needs for optimal function.
Like many vascular diseases, a problem with your carotid artery develops slowly over time so its symptoms are not immediately obvious. Generally, the first sign of trouble is a transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke) or a stroke caused by prolonged oxygen-deprivation in the brain.
The best treatment for your specific condition is determined by your doctor.
Common Treatments: Carotid Stenting, Carotid Ultrasound Interpretation
Peripheral artery disease most commonly affects the legs and feet. When vessels such as arteries, veins, or lymphatic vessels narrow and harden, less blood is delivered to organs and extremities. This narrowing is typically caused by atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque along the arterial wall.
Peripheral artery disease has specific symptoms such as:
The best treatment for your specific condition is determined by your doctor.
Common Treatments: Angioplasty & Stenting, Peripheral Angiogram, Peripheral Ultrasound Interpretation
Dakota Vascular is a physician-owned clinic with the Midwest’s premier specialists for treating arterial and venous disease. We are an equal opportunity employer.
3801 S Elmwood Ave
Sioux Falls, SD 57105