What are the Early Signs and Symptoms of Atherosclerosis?

So, what are the early signs and symptoms of atherosclerosis? Well, answering that question requires a little more background. Luckily, the Ozark Regional Vein & Artery Center team has plenty of that!

What is atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is the first stage of all other arterial diseases. As plaque builds up within an artery, it leads to the progressive thickening of the artery’s lining. This thickening process slowly narrows the artery’s interior, blocking the flow of blood and reducing blood circulation around the body to specific organs or regions of the body. 

This process, atherosclerotic occlusive vascular disease—atherosclerosis—is best described as hardening of the arteries. All other vascular diseases stem from plaque buildup and arterial hardening.

Risk factors for atherosclerosis include:

• High cholesterol and triglyceride levels

• High blood pressure

• Smoking

• Type 1 diabetes

• Obesity

• Physical inactivity

• High saturated fat diet

Signs and Symptoms

Most arterial diseases are asymptomatic until significantly progressed in large part because your arteries are only routinely monitored when something is already going wrong. Otherwise, most medical professionals see no need to take up your time.

This makes routine screening (especially if you have any of the above risk factors) imperative.

Atherosclerosis is identifiable with routine blood work but can be nearly impossible to detect if not severe. Because it is the precursor of other, more complex arterial diseases, it is most frequently identified by diagnosing other arterial diseases. 

Turn to the Vascular Experts in Rogers!

If you need support treating your atherosclerosis, turn to the Ozark Regional Vein & Artery Center. Our experience and constantly expanding suite of care options enable us to guide you toward lasting wellness solutions.

We are a premier practice in Northwest Arkansas for the highest-quality vein and artery treatments. Dr. Haney, Dr. Stout, and the expert staff have over 500 years of combined experience caring for patients’ vascular well-being. Helping people is what we do; our mission is to provide the people of Northwestern Arkansas and beyond with the absolute best care possible.

You can count on the Ozark Regional Vein & Artery Center to provide effective solutions for treating your arterial disease. Regardless of your needs or care resources, we will work with our patients to achieve optimal care results every time. 

So, if you’re concerned about your vascular well-being, check out our Virtual Vein Screening Tool or schedule a consultation!