Heart Health 101 - Plaque Build Up In The Arteries

What exactly is the Role of the Heart?

The heart is a complex structure. This essential organ provides the body a life source, the oxygenated blood. These functions are carried out with the help of the arteries and blood vessels.

What are the common diseases of the heart a person with unhealthy lifestyle may experience?

Blocked arteries of the heart or atherosclerosis are life-threatening conditions particularly when left undiagnosed and untreated. Blocked arteries could result into coronary artery disease wherein a lot more arteries circling the heart are involved. These arteries are also those responsible in bringing in oxygen towards the heart.

How is Hypertensive Cardiovascular Disease related to arterial plaques and other diseases of the heart?

The heart just depends on the regular and adequate supply of oxygenated blood for it to function properly. In turn of that favor, it pumps blood in all parts of the artery. This oxygen supply is completed with the coronary artery system's help. Damaged or narrowed arteries may partially block that oxygen supply and may result into a series of symptoms. These arteries can be narrowed by the process of atherosclerosis. It is the buildups of plaques in the arterial walls due to accumulated fats, cholesterol and calcium minerals in the blood.

What are the symptoms that you may experience when arterial plaques have already blocked the heart?

Blocked arteries or atherosclerosis is really a continuous progression that will take location via a long time frame. This undetected accumulation and build-up of fats doesn't only thicken the arterial walls but also narrows them. This might result into an ischemia and symptoms and complications will manifest.

1. Angina pectoris or chest pains

2. A heart attack or sudden failure of the heart

3. Choking sensation

4. Difficulty breathing

5. Nausea and vomiting

6. Pale and cold clammy skin

7. Excessive sweating