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ArteriosclerosisNumerous disorders fall under the broad category of heart and vascular disease. Here, discussion is restricted to arteriosclerosis, angina, and heart attack. Arteries transport blood from the heart and deliver it to other parts of the body. Arteriosclerosis occurs when the inside of the artery wall thickens, leaving a narrower passageway for the blood to travel through. This disorder is often called hardening of the arteries. Arteriosclerosis can effect the coronary arteries—the arteries that lead to the heart—and is usually caused by the buildup of fatty deposits within the arterial walls. This buildup is often the result of poor diet, one that is high in bad fats and low in fiber. Most people who have arteriosclerosis are not aware of it, as it does not trigger symptoms in the body until later in the disease. Unfortunately, when arteriosclerosis is left untreated, it just gets worse. Without treatment, the arteries will eventually become so constricted that adequate supplies of oxygenated blood can’t reach the heart muscle. This oxygen deprivation may result in the chest pain known as angina. Angina is often a precursor to a heart attack. In some ways, people with angina are lucky. Their pain usually leads to a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, and they can then take several steps to slow or reverse their condition before it results in a trip to the emergency room or even death. But for many, a heart attack is the first outward sign of trouble; 25 percent of people who suffer heart attacks have never felt any previous symptoms. A heart attack—or myocardial infraction, as it’s called by doctors—is brought on when blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is completely cut off, either because a clot has backed up behind a thickened artery, or because the artery itself has become so narrow that no blood at all can pass through. If you ever suspect that you are having a heart attack, you must receive emergency medical care at once. Instead of having someone drive you to a hospital (unless you are real close), call for an ambulance. Life-saving treatment for heart attacks requires special medical techniques and tools, the sooner professionals arrive with their equipment, the greater your chance of survival. Heart disease is so prevalent now; most people are surprised to hear that it was actually quite rare until the turn of the twentieth century. Our modern diet and way of life are at the root of most heart problems, and the best way to prevent or reverse heart disease is to change our habits. Because heart disease is caused by a variety of factors, it is best to include several kinds of therapies in your treatment or prevention plan. Eat well, exercise, manage stress, and identify and treat genetic susceptibilities that are known to bring on cardiovascular disease. ** All of
these prescriptions below have been proven effective; level
of effectiveness depends on the individual. Please consult your
doctor when taking any and all supplements.
Finally, the impact of stress and negative emotions cannot be underrated as a cause of heart disease, in addition to the physical causes. Symptoms of Arteriosclerosis There are usually no overt symptoms until later in the disease. See your doctor if you experience any of the following:
If you have any of the following symptoms, call 911 immediately. Even if the symptoms pass, you need emergency medical attention.
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Please consult your Doctor before taking any supplements. |
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