Arteriosclerosis
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Arteriosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries, is a progressive disease of the arteries in which plaque (deposits of fats, proteins and calcium) accumulates in the vessel walls. This leads to narrowing and hardening of the arteries, which can impair blood flow or, in the worst case, detach and block smaller vessels. Until a plaque detaches, the disease is asymptomatic. However, if a vessel, such as the coronary arteries, becomes blocked, the classic symptoms of a heart attack occur and rapid action is essential.
Localization of Arteriosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis can develop in all parts of the circulatory system, although arteries are predominantly affected. Veins practically never show arteriosclerotic changes in the vessel walls.
Arteriosclerosis is particularly common in the large arteries, especially where there is an anatomical branching of the vessels. Carotid arteries, inguinal arteries and coronary arteries are therefore more susceptible to arteriosclerosis and show increased plaque deposits. However, arteriosclerosis also develops more frequently in the aorta (main artery) due to the high pressures.
Symptoms of Arteriosclerosis
Arteriosclerosis shows no real symptoms and only becomes noticeable in the late stages.If the vessels are severely narrowed or if a thrombus forms, this can lead to sudden, life-threatening conditions.
Symptoms associated with arteriosclerosis are:
- Tightness and pain in the chest when the coronary arteries are affected (coronary artery disease)
- Circulatory disorder of the brain and symptoms of a stroke
- Symptoms of PAD when the leg arteries are affected
Dr. med. Karsten Ostermann M.A.
In the case of arteriosclerosis, close, interdisciplinary cooperation with experienced therapists from different medical specialties can be useful.
Causes of Arteriosclerosis
There are many causes of arteriosclerosis. These can reinforce each other and ensure that plaque builds up in the vessels over the years. The following causes of arteriosclerosis are listed:
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Overweight and obesity
- Lack of exercise
- Environmental pollution and poisoning of the body, e.g. mercury
- Intestinal health (intestinal milieu and leaky gut)
- Unhealthy fat levels (hypercholesterolemia)
- Genetic factors
Integrative and Environmental Aspects:
In holistic medicine, there is also intense focus on the extent to which additional systemic stressors burden vascular health and promote inflammation of the inner vessel walls (endothelium). These include chronic silent inflammations, toxic burdens from environmental toxins (e.g., heavy metals), and imbalances in the gut microbiome (such as leaky gut syndrome).
Arteriosclerosis Therapy
The therapy should, as far as possible, address the cause of the arteriosclerosis. Preventive measures are also effective and should be integrated.
The treatment of arteriosclerosis includes:
- Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, stopping smoking, regular physical activity.
- If necessary, medication to lower cholesterol
- If necessary, medication to lower blood pressure and thin the blood
- In advanced cases of arteriosclerosis, vascular surgery may be necessary to treat narrowed or blocked arteries.
Integrative medicine additionally aims to reduce systemic inflammation and optimize cell metabolism. Complementary measures such as gut rehabilitation or the use of phytotherapy aim to relieve the immune system. If toxic burdens (e.g., from heavy metals) are proven, chelation therapy can be evaluated in specialized centers. In very severe, therapy-resistant vascular or lipid metabolism disorders, special blood purification procedures (such as INUSpheresis®) are sometimes considered as an accompanying measure.
In addition, micronutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, and vitamin K2 can act supportively to promote heart health after medical consultation. Stress management through yoga or breathing exercises helps to positively influence blood pressure. Traditional herbal remedies such as garlic or Ginkgo Biloba are often used in naturopathy to promote microcirculation – however, they serve as complementary support and not as an alternative therapy to necessary conventional medical interventions.
Further information
The information listed contains relevant topics and serves to improve understanding.