Stomach pain due to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis. Causes, risk factors, complications and prevention of the disease. Atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries of the heart: symptoms

Atherosclerosis in the modern world every year increases its share among all cardiovascular diseases. This is due to various reasons, and, first of all, a change in the way of life of people, the ecological situation and, oddly enough, an increase in the level of well-being, because the daily menu of a person of the current generation, our ancestors could only dream of or dream about. True, some "cholesterol goodies" could be tasted at Easter and Christmas.

Despite the merciless struggle of the world's health communities, atherosclerosis does not give up, and the citizens themselves help him in this, because in most cases they do not really follow the recommendations of cardiologists.

It should be noted that in terms of atherosclerosis there is no particular reason for reassurance at a young age, it simply should not be confused with arteriosclerosis (arteriocalcinosis), when connective tissue grows with age, and, as a result, all layers of the arterial wall thicken, and the vessel loses its functional abilities.

Atherosclerosis is by no means the result of the natural aging of all organs and systems, the disease is an independent unit for which the male sex is a preference, and young age is not a hindrance.

The beginning of the atherosclerotic process

Atherosclerosis chose the walls of large and medium-sized arterial vessels as the place of its justification. Under the atherosclerotic process, we mean deposits and accumulations of low and very low density (LDL, VLDL - "harmful" fractions) and the fats contained in them in the delicate and elastic endothelium (the inner lining of the vessel).

The mechanism of development of atherosclerosis is quite complicated, it is based on a violation of the processes of lipid metabolism and lipoprotein complexes that change the structural structure of the endothelium of arterial vessels, so it will be more convenient to present the pathogenesis in a schematic form:

Literally all arterial vessels of large and medium caliber are subject to atherosclerotic changes. Features of the formation and course of the pathological process, its complications will be considered in other sections of the article. However, first you should pay attention to such important points as the causes of atherosclerosis and its risk factors.

Who is at risk first?

The circumstances that create the conditions for the risk of atherosclerosis have created the need for its classification, taking into account various factors. This made it possible to somewhat systematize the forms of atherosclerosis, its phases and stages. Forms of atherosclerosis are usually considered in terms of their origin, that is, the main cause of atherosclerosis.

Hemodynamic variants of the atherosclerotic process are due to:

, permanently arising for various reasons, for example, with prolonged nervous strain or in the presence of such a bad habit as smoking;
Vasomotor disorders caused by another pathology (cervical, hypoplasia of the vertebral artery, etc.).

metabolic forms of atherosclerosis are provoked by other situations:

Genetic history (hereditary-constitutional disorders of fat metabolism: cholesterol diathesis, xanthomatosis);
Alimentary disorders caused by excessive consumption of fatty foods and carbohydrates, resulting in obesity, which provokes an increase in cholesterol and its fractions in the blood serum;
Hypodynamia, which often leads to the accumulation of excess weight;
Endocrine pathology (, insufficiency of thyroid function, imbalance of sex hormones);
Damage to the kidneys and liver (nephrotic syndrome, fatty hepatosis, cholelithiasis - cholelithiasis, etc.);

The risk factors, and sometimes the causes of atherosclerosis, as mentioned above, also include gender: the disease often affects the vessels of males. In addition, the presence of only one provocateur is a rather rare case, more often they are present in a “company”, thereby aggravating the situation and increasing the likelihood of developing multifocal atherosclerosis, which proceeds as a multivessel atherosclerotic lesion with its characteristic consequences.

Forms of atherosclerosis, where both hemodynamic and metabolic provocateurs are collected, are called mixed it is they who make up the bulk of patients spoiling the statistics of strokes, heart attacks and not only them ...

Habitat classification

The process of accumulation of cholesterol complexes and the formation of atheromatous plaques at first does not give signs of atherosclerosis. Nevertheless, striking, in general, all the vessels of the body, he gives special preference to some. From the point of view of pathogenesis, this can be assumed based on the characteristic signs of certain pathological conditions. The preferred localization of the atherosclerotic process may be indicated by the clinical manifestations of coronary artery disease, if another cause of its formation (coronary and non-coronary origin) is not proven, or typical symptoms of atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities. Thus, depending on the predominant localization of the process, the following types of atherosclerosis are distinguished:

Atherosclerosis of the vessels of the heart;
atherosclerosis of the aorta;
Atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels;
Atherosclerosis of the renal arteries;
Atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta and its branches;
Atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities.

However, as you know, chronic atherosclerosis is a systemic disease and this often leads to the fact that different groups of vessels are affected in one organism, for example, coronary and cerebral (up to 40% of patients already have this combination). This type of atherosclerosis is called multifocal. Multifocal atherosclerosis is more dangerous, it requires complex therapy, aggravates the prognosis and affects the frequency of postoperative complications upward, and the complications of atherosclerosis in this case are also very dangerous (myocardial infarction, acute cerebrovascular accident).

The course of the pathological process

Manifestations of some kind of pathology in the body, and even more so direct signs of atherosclerosis, remain unnoticed for quite a long time, however, the pathological process is ongoing, as evidenced by long-term and ongoing clinical studies in this area. Thanks to them, in the formation of pathological changes were The following stages of atherosclerosis have been identified:

Unpredictable in time, sometimes significant in duration, latent (preclinical) period. Meanwhile, ischemic changes in blood vessels at the stage of well-being can already be determined by various diagnostic methods, which is better to start with a visit to the laboratory. The study of lipid spectrum indicators (cholesterol fractions and) and the calculation of the atherogenic coefficient will be able to "catch" the development of atherosclerosis at the initial stage;
The stage of atherosclerosis with nervous, vasomotor and metabolic disorders, which is already clinically manifesting itself, albeit weakly. In addition to laboratory shifts (), in patients after physical activity (veloergometry), ischemic changes in the electrocardiogram record begin to be recorded;

Stage I of clinical manifestations is called ischemic and is characterized by vasoconstriction, which leads to malnutrition of the relevant organs and the onset of dystrophic changes in them;
Stage II is called thrombonecrotic, it is accompanied by necrosis, large or small-focal, which is often accompanied;
III fibrous or sclerotic stage characterized by the formation of scars in the parenchymal (kidney, liver) and other organs with atrophic changes in themselves.

In addition, 3 phases are distinguished in the development of atherosclerosis: the active or progression phase, the phases of stabilization and regression.

Symptoms of atherosclerosis are best considered in accordance with its localization, that is, to describe the manifestations of an isolated form of the disease. This allows them to be somewhat detailed, because the signs of atherosclerosis of the aorta and peripheral vessels cannot be exactly the same.

Damage to the vessels of the neck creates problems for the head

If we talk about atherosclerosis of the vessels of the neck or atherosclerosis of the carotid artery, we mean atherosclerotic lesions of the vessels that feed the brain and ensure its normal functioning. It follows from this that if a problem arose regarding these arteries, then all structures of the central nervous system (CNS) will suffer, therefore it makes no sense to consider them separately, it is better to simply take them and combine them into one disease (which, however, has been done before us) - atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels.

1 - atherosclerosis of the cervical localization, 2 - atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

The reasons for this type are the same as other forms, it develops according to similar laws, however, cervical osteochondrosis also contributes here. Meanwhile, this type of atherosclerosis has an excellent symptomatology, here the entire burden falls on the head. Due to the fact that atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels leads to the formation of chronic insufficiency of cerebral circulation, the result of this process will be unpleasant consequences in the form of, or rather, its individual areas, which is clinically manifested.

atherosclerosis of the aorta with the formation of an aneurysm. A - in the region of the aortic arch, B - at the abdominal level

For an aortic aneurysm, pain is characteristic, which depends on its location:

With an aneurysm of the ascending section - pain behind the sternum;
Arcs - pain in the chest, extending to the back, neck, shoulder;
A descending aortic aneurysm causes pain in the back.

In addition, other signs are also characteristic of an aneurysm: headache, swelling on the face due to compression of the superior vena cava, a change in the timbre of the voice (hoarseness), cough (compression of the recurrent nerve and trachea).

Aortic aneurysm gives a very serious complication - and her ending in the death of the patient. Early diagnosis can save a patient's life if surgical treatment of atherosclerosis and its consequences (aneurysm) is promptly performed, which, however, is also associated with considerable difficulties. Conservative therapy for an aneurysm is not possible.

Atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta

With atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta and its branches or the formation of an aneurysm in it, the following symptoms are present:

Abdominal pain;
Feeling of heaviness;
indigestion;
Perhaps the presence in the abdominal cavity of a pulsating formation (aneurysm).

The celiac trunk extending from the abdominal region, through its branches, provides blood to the liver and spleen, and the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries carry food to the intestines. The deposition of atheromatous plaques on the walls of such large arterial vessels leads to narrowing (stenosis) and the development of stenotic atherosclerosis, and, accordingly, malnutrition of the blood-supplying organs with the occurrence of ischemia.

Atherosclerosis of the mesenteric vessels often misleads the patient, because it does not make it clear: is it an angina attack or a gastrointestinal pathology? Pain spreading over the upper abdomen resembles cardialgia (abdominal toad syndrome), but the presence of dyspeptic symptoms, signs of bowel dysfunction and weight loss gives the patient some reason to think about gastric problems.

When mesenteric vessels are occluded by a plaque or thrombus (mesenteric thrombosis), the superior mesenteric artery, which supplies blood to a significant part of the intestine, most often suffers. leads to gangrene of the intestine and requires emergency surgical intervention.

Atherosclerosis of peripheral arteries

This type of atherosclerosis is often found in the arterial vessels that carry food to the lower extremities, so in the literature you can often find a description of atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities than damage to the arteries of the hands (they suffer less). Like other types, the pathology proceeds as chronic atherosclerosis and goes through 3 stages:

The treatment of atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities is carried out by a surgeon who, at the initial stages, tries to stop the progression with the help of conservative therapy (ointments, gels, vascular preparations, etc.), however, if the main vessels are damaged, it ceases to help and the doctor is forced to raise the question of surgical intervention.

Atherosclerosis of the renal arteries

At the moment, answers questions: A. Olesya Valerievna, candidate of medical sciences, teacher of a medical university

Intestinal diseases are conventionally divided into several groups: These include

1. malformations (megacolon, stenosis and atresia, diverticula)

2. inflammatory diseases (acute and chronic enteritis, appendicitis, acute and chronic colitis)

Z. enteropathy

4. Tumor formations (polyps and intestinal cancers).

1. Malformations.

Megacolon is a congenital expansion of the large intestine or an isolated expansion of the sigmoid colon (megasigma) with hypertrophy of the muscular layer of its wall.

Stenosis and atresia - narrowing or complete absence of a section of the intestine. They are found in different parts of the intestine, more often at the junction of the duodenum into the jejunum and the ileum into the blind. This pathology leads to intestinal obstruction.

Intestinal diverticula - protrusions of the intestinal wall can be true or false.

True diverticula it is a protrusion of all layers of the intestinal wall.

False- protrusion of the mucous membrane and submucosal layer through defects in the muscular layer.

When multiple diverticula develop in the intestines, they speak of diverticulosis.

With the development of inflammation, perforation of the intestinal wall may occur, complicated by peritonitis.

Inflammation t intestinal cancer ica is called enteritis, colon and colitis total defeat - enterocolitis.

Enteritis can be acute and chronic.

Acute enteritis is an acute inflammation of the small intestine.

Etiology. There are several factors leading to the development of acute enteritis:

Infectious diseases (cholera, typhoid fever, staphylococcal and viral infections) food poisoning (salmonellosis, botulism);

Intoxication with chemical poisons and fungi.

Alimentary factor (eating coarse food, alcohol, etc.)

Allergic (when exposed to exo - and endogenous allergens, medicines)

Clinical and morphological forms

Allocate catarrhal, fibrinous, purulent, ulcerative-necrotic acute enteritis.

With catarrhal enteritis the intestinal mucosa is plethoric, edematous, in the intestinal lumen there is abundant mucous exudate. As part of the exudate, mucus, desquamated epithelium, an admixture of leukocytes, goblet cell hyperplasia (hot, cold food, alcohol)

With fibrinous enteritis, gray or gray-brown overlays appear on the intestinal mucosa, represented by fibrinous filaments. Depending on the causative agent and the severity of the disease, inflammation can be croupous or diphtheric in nature. In the latter case, after the rejection of fibrinous films, deep ulcers form. (Diphtheria. Dysentery. Uremia)

With purulent enteritis there is diffuse impregnation of the intestinal wall with leukocytes with the formation of purulent exudate, phlegmonous enteritis or the formation of pustules, in place of lymphoid follicles, apostematous enteritis. (Sepsis, septic conditions).

With necrotizing ulcerative enteritis ulcerative defects are formed on the intestinal mucosa, reaching the muscular or serous layer. (Rejection of fibrinous films, ulceration of follicles (typhoid fever)).

Outcomes and complications of OE. A favorable outcome of OE is recovery with complete restoration of the mucosa.

Complications:

Bleeding,

Perforation of the intestinal wall with the development of peritonitis,

Transition to the chronic form.

Chronic enteritis - chronic inflammation of the small intestine, may be an independent disease or a manifestation of other chronic diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis, rheumatic diseases, etc.).

Etiology.

Chronic enteritis can cause exogenous and endogenous factors.

Exogenous factors are:

1. Infections (staphylococcus, salmonella, viruses),

2. Intoxication, exposure to certain drugs (salicylates, antibiotics, cytostatic agents),

3. long-term nutritional errors (abuse of spicy, hot, poorly cooked food), the use of coarse vegetable fiber, hypovitaminosis

Endogenous factors can be:

Autointoxication (for example, with uremia),

Metabolic disorders (with chronic pancreatitis, cirrhosis of the liver),

hereditary fermentopathy.

Pathological anatomy. There are two forms of chronic enteritis - without atrophy of the mucous membrane, atrophic enteritis.

In chronic enteritis without mucosal atrophy - the villi are thickened, deformed, in the submucosa there is a pronounced infiltration of macrophages, plasma cells, lymphocytes, eosinophils. The infiltrate reaches the muscular layer of the mucous membrane. In the submucosa, the phenomena of sclerosis are observed.

In violation of the physiological regeneration of the mucous membrane of the small intestine, increased proliferation of the epithelium develops, which is accompanied by insufficient differentiation, young poorly differentiated cells appear. Those. CE is an optional precancer.

In chronic atrophic enteritis, there is thinning of the mucosa, shortening of the villi, a decrease in the number of goblet cells, and lymphohistiocytic infiltration of the stroma.

Complications: with prolonged, severe chronic enteritis may develop

anemia, cachexia, hypoproteinemia and dysproteinemia, osteoporosis.

endocrine disorders, avitaminosis

malabsorption syndrome.

ENTEROPATHY (according to the textbook)

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix of the caecum, giving a characteristic clinical syndrome.

Ethnology and pathogenesis. There are several theories for the development of appendicitis.

The second theory - neurovascular disorders proposed in 1951. Russian pathologist Rusakov. According to this theory, autoinfection in the appendix occurs due to vascular disorders in its wall, which are of a neurogenic nature. Vasospasm leads to a sharp malnutrition of the process and the development of dystrophic and necrobiotic changes in its tissues, which ensures the invasion of infectious agents with the development of purulent inflammation.

Pathological anatomy. There are two clinical and anatomical forms of appendicitis: acute and chronic. Each of them has a certain morphological characteristic.

Atherosclerosis is a fairly common chronic disease characterized by its own progression. Atherosclerosis, the symptoms of which appear against the background of lesions of medium and large arteries due to the accumulation of cholesterol in them (which determines the cause of this disease), causes circulatory disorders and a number of serious risks provoked by this disorder.

general description

With atherosclerosis, atherosclerotic plaques form on the walls of blood vessels (they are based on fatty deposits in combination with growing connective tissue). Because of these plaques, narrowing of the vessels and their subsequent deformation occur. These changes, in turn, lead to impaired blood circulation, as well as damage to internal organs. Basically, large arteries are affected.

Let us dwell in more detail on the picture of this disease. First of all, we note that the occurrence and subsequent formation of atherosclerosis depends on the following factors:

the state in which the vascular walls are located;
the relevance of the genetic hereditary factor;
disorders in fat (lipid) metabolism.

Initially noted cholesterol refers to fats, with its help a number of different functions are provided in our body. In other words, it can be considered as a building material used in cell walls. In addition, cholesterol is a component of vitamins and hormones, due to which adequate vital activity of the body is ensured. Cholesterol is synthesized by about 70% of its total amount in the liver, while the remaining part of it enters the body through food.

Note that cholesterol in the body is not in a free state, it is included in the composition of specific complex compounds of fats and protein - lipoproteins. Lipoproteins, in turn, provide the possibility of its transfer from the liver to the tissues through the bloodstream. If the cholesterol in the body is in an excessive state, then from the tissues it goes to the liver, and it is here that the excess amount is utilized. Violation of the functioning of this mechanism leads to the development of the disease we are considering, that is, atherosclerosis.

In the development of atherosclerosis, the main role is assigned to low-density lipoproteins, in an abbreviated form, this is LDL. At their expense, cholesterol is transported from the liver to the cells, while a strictly defined amount of it is subject to such transportation, otherwise an excess of the level determines a serious risk for the possible development of atherosclerosis against this background.

As for the return transport of cholesterol from tissues to the liver, it is already provided by high-density lipoproteins, which in an abbreviated version defines them as HDL, a separate class of anti-atherogenic lipoproteins. They provide cleansing of the surface layer of cells from excess cholesterol. The risk of developing atherosclerosis occurs with a low level of HDL cholesterol and with an increased level of LDL.

Let us dwell on the age-related features of atherosclerosis. So, it can be noted that the initial type of changes within the walls of the arteries (their medium and large caliber) are already noted at a young age. Subsequently, their evolution occurs, in which they are transformed into fibroadenomatous plaques, which, in turn, often develop after the age of 40 years. The specified atherosclerotic vascular lesion is actual in about 17% of cases in patients under the age of 20 years, in 60% - under the age of 40 years, in 85% - in the age of 50 years and older.

In the future, the picture of the disease is as follows. The arterial wall undergoes penetration into its base of fibrin, cholesterol and a number of substances, due to the influence of which an atherosclerotic plaque is formed. Being in excess, cholesterol, when exerting an appropriate effect, causes an increase in plaque size, which creates an obstacle to adequate blood flow through the vessels in the area of the formed narrowing. Against this background, blood flow decreases, inflammation develops. Blood clots are also formed, they can subsequently come off, thereby determining a significant danger to the vessels that are vital in our body. This is due to the possibility of their blockage, because of which, in turn, the organs will be deprived of the blood supply they require.

Causes of atherosclerosis

The causes of atherosclerosis can be very different, they are also equated with risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis, which indicates that the compliance of conditions with these factors increases the risk of possible development of atherosclerosis in patients. In general, such risk factors can be divided into two main groups, depending on the nature of the impact on them by the patient himself. Thus, the causes of atherosclerosis can be changeable and unchangeable (modifiable and non-modifiable).

Immutable (non-modifiable) reasons, as can be determined already from their name, it is impossible to change by certain measures of influence (including medical ones). These factors include the following:

Floor. This factor is considered as an independent risk factor in considering the development of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis in men develops about 10 years earlier, which is known on the basis of certain statistical data on this subject when compared with female incidence. In addition, before the age of 50, the risk of developing this disease in men is four times higher than, respectively, in women. When the threshold of 50 years of age is reached, the incidence in both sexes is equalized. This feature is explained by the fact that specific hormonal changes begin in the female body from this period, and the protection function provided by estrogen disappears (here, as you can understand, we are talking about menopause and a gradual decrease in the intensity of the release of these estrogen hormones).
Age. As the reader may have already noticed, with age, the risk of developing the disease we are considering increases. Accordingly, the older the person, the greater this risk. And, of course, it is also impossible to influence this factor, because it is considered in this group of them. It should be noted that in general, atherosclerosis as a disease is often compared with the aging of the body, that is, as one of the manifestations of this process. This is explained by the fact that atherosclerotic changes after the transition beyond a specific age period are determined in absolutely all patients. And, as already noted, from the age of 45-50, the risk of such changes especially increases.
genetic predisposition. This risk factor is also unchanged when considering atherosclerosis. Thus, those patients whose closest relatives are diagnosed with one or another of its forms are especially susceptible to this disease. It is generally accepted that genetic predisposition (it is also heredity) also acts as such a factor, due to which the relative acceleration of the development of atherosclerosis is determined (up to the age of 50). Meanwhile, in people whose age exceeds the mark of 50 years, the factor of heredity in practice determines a slight influence on the development of atherosclerosis, therefore, it is impossible to give a clear statement regarding the early development of this disease if relatives have it.

Changeable (modifiable) reasons, in turn, are characterized by the fact that they can be influenced by the patient. This may include lifestyle adjustments, treatment, etc. Let us single out the options that are relevant for the disease under consideration:

arterial hypertension. This cause (factor) is independent in considering the development of atherosclerosis. The peculiarity of the effect of hypertension is that against its background there is an increase in the intensity of impregnation of arterial walls with fats, which, in turn, is considered as the initial stage in the development of the main manifestation of atherosclerosis, an atherosclerotic plaque. At the same time, atherosclerosis, due to which the elasticity of the arteries is subject to change, is a factor that increases the risk of developing hypertension in a patient.
Smoking. This factor is a serious help for the development of many diseases, and atherosclerosis is no exception. With prolonged smoking, the risk of developing the hypertension discussed above, as a predisposing factor in the development of atherosclerosis, increases, which already allows us to trace the chain of changes that are relevant in this case. In addition, smoking also contributes to the development of CHD (coronary heart disease) and hyperlipidemia, which also accelerates the development of atherosclerosis in smokers. The basis of the influence is based on the negative impact that the components of tobacco smoke have directly on the vessels.
Obesity. Another, no less significant factor in the influence, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. Again, obesity predisposes not only to the development of atherosclerosis itself, but also to one of the factors we have already listed, arterial hypertension, which in any case, as can be understood, connects this factor with the disease we are considering. In addition, we note that obesity is also one of the main factors in the development of diabetes mellitus, which also plays an important role in considering the modifiable factors of interest to us.
Diabetes. The relevance of this factor for patients significantly increases the risk of developing atherosclerosis (approximately 5-7 times). Such a high risk is explained by the relevance of metabolic disorders (in particular, this applies to fats), which provokes the development of atherosclerotic changes in the vessels.
Hyperlipidemia (dyslipidemia). This factor implies a violation in the metabolism of fats, which determines its no less significant role in terms of considering factors provoking atherosclerosis. It should be noted that all of the above factors are directly related to dyslipidemia, that is, with each of them, the problem of impaired fat metabolism is relevant. The main role in the development of atherosclerosis (as well as other types of diseases associated with the cardiovascular system) is given to the following forms of fat metabolism disorders: elevated cholesterol, elevated triglycerides and elevated levels of lipoproteins in the blood.
Features of nutrition. The development of atherosclerosis in particular is affected by the presence of a significant amount of animal fats in the diet.
Hypodynamia (sedentary lifestyle). This factor also plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis, including the development of the previously listed conditions (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, obesity). Due to reduced motor activity, as you might guess, the processes of carbohydrate and fat metabolism are disrupted, due to which, accordingly, the risk of developing these disorders and atherosclerosis in particular increases.
Infections. The infectious nature of the development of atherosclerosis has been considered relatively recently. On the basis of ongoing studies, it was found that cytomegalovirus and chlamydial infections can be considered as two options representing this item in its connection with atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis: stages

As we have already identified, the pathological process that is relevant for atherosclerosis is concentrated within the walls of the arteries. This, in turn, leads to the gradual destruction of the affected wall. In accordance with the degree of damage and its features, 3 stages of atherosclerosis are determined sequential in their manifestation, we will consider them below.

I stage. As part of its manifestation lipid spots form. This implies the impregnation of the walls of the arteries with fat molecules, the localization of the impregnation is noted in this case only within the limited sections of the walls. These areas appear as yellowish stripes concentrated along the entire length of the affected artery. The features of this stage are characterized by the fact that the symptoms of atherosclerosis as such do not manifest themselves, and in general there are no specific disorders due to which it would be possible to determine the relevance of a violation of circulation in the blood arteries. The acceleration of the formation of lipid spots can occur due to the influence of the modifiable factors discussed above in the form of obesity, arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus.
II stage. This stage is also defined as the stage of liposclerosis, characterized by the development of atherosclerosis to a stage in which inflammation of lipid spots occurs, which leads to the accumulation of cells of the immune system in their cavities. In particular, they attempt to cleanse the arterial wall from fats that have had time to deposit on it (in some cases, these may be microbes). Against the background of a prolonged inflammatory process, the fats deposited on the arterial wall begin to decompose, and at the same time, the germination of connective tissues in it occurs. It leads to fibrous plaque formation which determines this stage. The surface of such a plaque is in a somewhat elevated position relative to the inner surface of the affected vessel, due to which, thus, its lumen is narrowed, and blood circulation is also disturbed.
III stage. This stage is the final stage in the development of atherosclerosis, it is characterized by the development of a number of complications, directly related to the development of fibrous plaque. In addition, it is from this stage of the disease that its symptoms begin to appear. This stage is defined as the stage of atherocalcinosis. The progression of the plaque deformation at this stage is determined by the compaction relevant to it, as well as the deposition of calcium salts in it. The nature of the manifestation of an atherosclerotic plaque can determine both its stability and gradual growth, due to which it will continue to deform the lumen of the artery and narrow it. Against the background of this latter option, in turn, the development of a progressive form of a chronic disorder in the blood supply of the organ that feeds on the affected artery will be provoked. This also causes a significant risk of the formation of occlusion (an acute form of blockage), in which the lumen of the vessel is blocked either by a thrombus or by an element of plaque decay, as a result of which the blood-supplying organ or limb undergoes a different type of lesion against this background - in the form of the formation of a site of necrosis (infarction) or gangrene.

Atherosclerosis: symptoms

Predominantly affected by atherosclerosis is the aorta (abdominal and thoracic), mesenteric, coronary and renal arteries, as well as the arteries of the brain and lower extremities.

As part of the development of the disease, its asymptomatic (or preclinical) period and the clinical period are distinguished. The asymptomatic period is accompanied by an increased content of beta-lipoproteins in the blood or an increased content of cholesterol in it, while there are no symptoms, as can be understood from the definition of this period.

As for the period of clinical manifestations, they are relevant when the arterial lumen is narrowed by 50% or more. This, in turn, determines the relevance of the three main stages of the period: ischemic stage, thrombonecrotic stage and fibrous stage.

Ischemic stage It is characterized by the fact that with it the blood supply to a certain organ is disturbed. As an example, we can highlight the picture of the course of this stage, in which myocardial ischemia against the background of atherosclerosis of the coronary vessels manifests itself in the form of angina pectoris. Stage thrombonecrotic characterized by the addition of thrombosis of arteries that have undergone changes. Atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries in this case can in its own course reach complications in the form of myocardial infarction. And finally fibrous stage, which is characterized by the proliferation of connective tissue that occurs in inefficiently supplied organs. Again, when considering atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries at this stage, one can distinguish the transition to the development of such a pathology as atherosclerotic cardiosclerosis.

As for the specific manifestations of atherosclerosis, its symptoms are determined based on which type of artery has been affected. Below we consider the main variants of the course of this disease.

Atherosclerosis of the aorta: symptoms

Atherosclerosis of the aorta is the most common variant of the manifestation of atherosclerosis, respectively, in most patients it is revealed. Atherosclerosis can affect its various parts, on the basis of which, in turn, the symptoms of the disease and the prognosis for it are determined.

As you probably know, the aorta is the largest blood vessel in our body. It starts from the heart (left ventricle), then branches, thus forming many small vessels that spread to the tissues and organs of our body. The aorta consists of two main sections, which are located in anatomically different areas. The abdominal and thoracic aorta act as such departments.

The thoracic aorta in the aorta is the initial site, due to which the blood supply to the upper part of our body is provided, respectively, these are the organs of the chest itself, neck, head and upper limbs. As for the abdominal aorta, it is the final site; blood supply is provided through it for the abdominal organs. In turn, its final section is divided into two main branches, which are the left and right iliac arteries, through which blood flows to the lower limbs and to the pelvic organs.

In atherosclerosis of the aorta, the lesion, which is relevant for this disease, covers either the entire aorta along its length, or its individual areas. The symptomatology in this case is also determined depending on where exactly the pathological process is localized and how pronounced the changes that have arisen in the walls of the aorta under its influence have become.

Aortic aneurysm is the most dangerous complication provoked by aortic atherosclerosis. With an aortic aneurysm, a certain section of the artery expands, which is accompanied by thinning of the vessel wall and an increased risk of rupture of the artery, which, in turn, can lead to life-threatening bleeding.

Atherosclerosis of the thoracic aorta: symptoms

For a long time, there are no symptoms. Often, atherosclerosis of this department develops along with such forms of the disease as atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries of the heart (i.e. coronary arteries), as well as atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels.

The manifestation of symptoms is observed mainly at the age of 60-70 years, which is explained by the significant damage to the walls of the aorta by this time. Patients complain of burning pain in the chest area, systolic blood pressure rises, swallowing becomes difficult, dizziness is relevant.

As less specific manifestations of symptoms, early aging can be noted, which is combined with the early appearance of gray hair. At the same time, there is an abundance of hair growth in the area of the auricles, a characteristic light strip appears along the outer edge of the iris, and wen appear on the skin of the face.

Atherosclerosis of the abdominal aorta: symptoms

This form of the disease is diagnosed in almost half of the cases of all possible variants of its manifestation. Similarly to the previous form, for a long time it may not manifest itself at all.

Atherosclerosis of the area under consideration acts as a reason for the development in patients of such a pathology as abdominal ischemic disease. It, similarly to IHD (ischemic disease), is characterized by the fact that it leads to impaired blood supply against the background of atherosclerosis of vessels, which is particularly relevant for those organs that these vessels feed.

Symptoms associated with a lesion of the abdominal aorta can manifest themselves in the following:

Stomach ache. Such pains occur after eating, the nature of the manifestation is paroxysmal, aching. As a rule, they are not too intense, they do not have a clear localization. Such pains disappear in a few hours on their own.
Digestive disorders. In particular, complaints of bloating, the appearance of constipation and diarrhea (alternation of conditions) and a decrease in appetite are relevant.
Weight loss. This symptom is progressive, caused by a stable form of indigestion.
Arterial hypertension (high blood pressure), renal failure. Increased blood pressure is due to the fact that the blood supply to the kidneys is subject to violation. As for renal failure, it develops due to the fact that gradually their normal tissues begin to be replaced by connective tissues. This, in turn, determines their gradual necrosis against the background of insufficient blood supply.
Thrombosis of the visceral arteries. This complication is deadly in atherosclerosis of the considered part of the aorta, moreover, it requires urgent specialized medical care. With the necrosis of the vessels, due to which the blood supply to the intestine is ensured, its loops become dead, which leads to massive inflammation of the organs concentrated in the abdominal cavity and in the peritoneum (which determines peritonitis). The symptoms of this condition include severe pain that does not disappear when taking antispasmodics and painkillers. In addition, a sudden deterioration in general well-being soon joins the pain.

Atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels: symptoms

This form of atherosclerosis is no less common; in this case, the intracranial and extracranial vessels that feed the brain are subject to damage. The severity of symptoms is determined based on the degree of damage to these vessels. Due to atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels, the activity of the nervous system is gradually inhibited, mental disorders or a stroke may develop.

The first manifestations of the symptoms of this form of atherosclerosis are diagnosed at the age of 60-65 years of patients, while their interpretation is reduced in most cases only to manifestations of signs of aging of the body. However, this belief is only partly correct. Aging itself is an irreversible physiological process, while atherosclerosis acts as a specific type of disease, the course of which, until it reaches certain limits, determines the possibility of a cure, as well as the implementation of certain preventive measures against it.

Now let's move on to symptoms. The initial manifestations of atherosclerosis of this form are episodic attacks of "ischemic attack", within which relatively stable neurological symptoms appear. This includes, in particular, violations of sensitivity, which can manifest itself either in its decrease on one side of the body, or in complete loss. There are also movement disorders in the form of paresis (partial loss of muscle strength) and paralysis. In addition, there may be hearing, vision and speech impairments. The listed symptomatology, meanwhile, manifests itself within a short time period, after which it disappears.

With a pronounced form of manifestation of atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels, a stroke often develops, in which there is a necrosis of a certain area of brain tissue. This condition is characterized by a persistent manifestation of the symptoms that we have already considered (loss of sensitivity, paralysis, loss of speech), it can be treated to a small extent.

As other manifestations of the symptoms of atherosclerosis of this form, one can note a disorder of higher nervous activity in one form or another (in particular, this applies to intellectual abilities and memory), changes in character (pickiness, capriciousness, etc.), sleep disturbances, development of depressive states.

Lack of adequate treatment can lead to dementia (senile dementia). It, in turn, is a severe and, unfortunately, an irreversible manifestation of a decrease in the higher functions inherent in the brain.

Stroke is the greatest danger of this disease. This condition is essentially a condition similar to myocardial infarction, a condition in which tissue necrosis occurs. This condition is accompanied by increased mortality, as well as frequent disability of patients.

It should be noted that in some cases, symptoms indicating atherosclerosis of the arteries of the brain can be quite difficult to differentiate, for example, from symptoms that manifest themselves in hypertensive encephalopathy or from actual disorders of cerebral blood supply due to the development of spinal diseases of a degenerative scale (for example, osteochondrosis). In reality, it often happens that in patients of the senile group, many of the diseases that could be confused with atherosclerosis are relevant, because the diagnosis of this disease determines the need for an integrated approach to this process.

Atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities: symptoms

Similar to the forms we considered earlier, atherosclerosis of the lower extremities (atherosclerosis obliterans) does not manifest itself for a long time, and this lasts until the blood circulation through the vessels is seriously disturbed against the background of the disease we are considering.

As a classic, one might say, symptom, in this case, pains that occur when walking in the muscles of the lower extremities are considered. This symptom has a definition corresponding to its manifestation - “intermittent claudication” (which is explained by periodic stops while walking due to pain that occurs to reduce their intensity). Pain occurs in this case due to the fact that there is a lack of oxygen in the functioning muscles, which, in turn, occurs due to the specifics of atherosclerosis itself.

Remarkably, arterial insufficiency that occurs with this form of atherosclerosis negatively affects not only the functions characteristic of the legs, but it also acts as a cause of the development of trophic disorders, in which the nutrition of the lower extremities is subject to violation in particular. Trophic disorders can manifest themselves in hair loss and skin changes (thinning, pallor). Nails are prone to deformation, become brittle. In severe cases, atherosclerosis of the legs is accompanied not only by muscle atrophy, but also by the formation of trophic ulcers in combination with gangrene.

Arterial insufficiency of the legs manifests itself in accordance with the disorders that determine its main four stages.

I stage . In this case, pain in the legs appears only in combination with significant physical exertion (for example, it can be walking for long distances (from one kilometer or more)).
II stage . In this case, the limiting distance for the occurrence of pain is reduced, amounting to no more than 200 meters, after overcoming which, accordingly, the pain appears.
III stage . Here, pain already occurs when walking within a distance of no more than 25 meters, or even at rest.
IV stage . At this stage, trophic ulcers form in patients, gangrene of the lower extremities develops.

As another sign corresponding to the manifestations of atherosclerosis, the disappearance of the pulse, noted in the region of the arteries of the lower extremities (this may be the region on the back of the inner ankle, the region of the popliteal fossa, or the region of the thigh), is considered.

Thrombosis of the iliac arteries and the terminal part of the abdominal aorta provokes the development of Leriche's syndrome.

Leriche's syndrome is accompanied by a violation of blood circulation, relevant for the arteries of the lower extremities, as well as for organs concentrated in the pelvic area. Quite often, this syndrome develops against the background of atherosclerosis of the aorta. The manifestations of this pathology are similar to those that occur with atherosclerosis of the vessels of the legs.

In addition, impotence may develop, which, as you know, is relevant for men. Obliterating atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities can act as a serious kind of trophic disorders that directly affect the limbs (legs), which can also lead to the development of gangrene, and, ultimately, to the loss of one of them. Accordingly, any warning sign can serve as a reason for contacting a specialist.

Atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries of the heart: symptoms

This form of the disease acts as the main cause of the development of coronary heart disease in patients, which, in turn, develops against the background of impaired blood supply to the heart muscle. Myocardial infarction and angina pectoris are pathologies that directly depend on the degree of development of atherosclerosis that affects the arteries of the heart. Thus, with partial blockage, coronary disease develops (of varying degrees of severity of its own manifestation), and with complete blockage, myocardial infarction develops.

Focusing on the features of the pathology of interest to us, which is atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries of the heart, we highlight the features of the blood supply to the heart. It is provided in particular by two coronary arteries that follow from the aorta. With any violation that occurs during the circulation of blood through the coronary (coronary) arteries, the work of the heart muscle is disrupted, respectively. This, in turn, can lead to a heart attack.

Most often, blood circulation is disturbed against the background of atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries. In this case, this pathology is accompanied by the formation of dense plaques, due to which the deformation and destruction of the artery wall gradually occurs while its lumen narrows (a typical picture of the course of atherosclerosis). Symptoms of atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries correspond to those symptoms that appear in coronary artery disease, but the main cause in any case is precisely atherosclerosis.

The main manifestations of symptoms, respectively, in this case are the development of angina pectoris and coronary artery disease, cardiosclerosis and myocardial infarction act as complications of atherosclerosis of the heart vessels. An attack of angina, manifested in the form of atherosclerosis under consideration, is characterized by the following manifestations of symptoms:

the appearance of burning, pressing pain in the chest; the spread of such pain to the left shoulder and to the back; occurrence - in the event of stressful situations or during physical exertion;
shortness of breath (there is a feeling of lack of air, it is usually accompanied by the pain attack indicated above; in some cases, it becomes necessary to take a sitting position, because the patient simply begins to choke when lying down);
as a possible option to supplement the picture of an attack, the appearance of symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting and dizziness is considered.

Treatment of an angina attack is provided by taking nitroglycerin to patients, moreover, this drug is the main one in considering emergency relief of an attack.

With a complication in the form myocardial infarction patients develop intense pain, reminiscent of those that occur with angina pectoris. The difference is that the use of nitroglycerin does not determine the corresponding effect. As complementary manifestations of symptoms, severe shortness of breath is noted, the patient may lose consciousness. The manifestation of heart failure is characterized by its own sharpness.

If a complication such as cardiosclerosis, then heart failure with it manifests itself in a gradual manner, which is accompanied by a decrease in physical activity in combination with shortness of breath and the occurrence of swelling.

The determination of specific signs corresponding to atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries can only be made using special diagnostic techniques.

Atherosclerosis of mesenteric vessels: symptoms

This form of atherosclerosis manifests itself predominantly from the side of the upper abdomen. The time of manifestation of symptoms, which, first of all, is the appearance of pain, mainly occurs in the late hours, in particular after dinner. The duration of the manifestation of pain can be from several minutes to up to an hour. As concomitant manifestations of symptoms, bloating and belching may also be noted, and constipation may occur. Pain in atherosclerosis, when compared with the pain syndrome associated with peptic ulcer disease, is not so long in manifestation.

The main symptoms associated with atherosclerosis in this form include the following manifestations:

bloating;
moderate manifestation of pain, determined by probing the abdomen;
slight muscle tension in the anterior abdominal wall;
weakening of peristalsis or its complete absence.

The listed manifestations are defined as such a condition as "angina pectoris". It develops due to a discrepancy between the volume of blood required to provide blood supply to the organs of the digestive system and the actual volume, which, as can be understood, is insufficient for this.

As one of the complications of this form of atherosclerosis, thrombosis that develops in the mesenteric vessels can be noted. As a rule, it appears suddenly, accompanied by the following concomitant symptoms:

constant pain of a wandering or diffuse nature that occurs in the abdomen;
pain in the area of the navel;
nausea, repeated vomiting (with an admixture of bile; blood may also be present, which is noted in this case in the feces);
constipation, flatulence (gas).

Often, thrombosis of the mesenteric vessels ends with the development of intestinal gangrene, which, in turn, is accompanied by severe symptoms of peritonitis.

Atherosclerosis of the renal arteries: symptoms

This form of atherosclerosis causes the development of a persistent form of ischemia, which, in turn, acts as a factor provoking the development of a consistently high form of arterial hypertension.

Some cases of the course of atherosclerosis of the renal arteries are accompanied by the absence of symptoms. Meanwhile, more often the picture of the disease manifests itself in the form of the development of atherosclerotic plaques with simultaneous narrowing of the lumen of the renal artery, against which a secondary form of arterial hypertension develops.

If only one of the renal arteries is affected, we can talk about the slow progression of this disease; in this case, high blood pressure becomes the foremost manifestation of symptoms. If the spread of the process affects both arteries at once, then this, in turn, causes the development of the disease according to the type in which arterial hypertension is malignant, characterized by rapid progression and a serious deterioration in the general condition of the patient.

Associated symptoms may include abdominal pain and pain in the lumbar region. The duration of pain sensations manifests itself in different ways, in some cases being about several hours, in others - about several days. Nausea and vomiting may also occur.

Diagnosis

The primary diagnosis of atherosclerosis is carried out by a therapist as part of a standard annual examination of the patient in this area. To do this, pressure is measured, risk factors that contribute to the development of atherosclerosis are identified, and body mass index is measured.

As a clarifying measure, the following research methods can be applied:

ECG (echocardiography) in combination with ultrasound of the aorta and heart, as well as with special stress tests;
Invasive research methods (coronary angiography, angiography, ultrasound intravascular examination);
Duplex scanning, triplex scanning (blood flow is subject to examination by means of ultrasound imaging of blood vessels);
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), through which visualization of atherosclerotic plaques and arterial walls is performed.

Treatment

Treatment of atherosclerosis is based on a number of the following principles:

impact on infectious agents;
implementation of substitution therapy measures (important for women during menopause);
increased excretion of cholesterol and its metabolites from the body;
limiting the intake of cholesterol in the body, reducing the synthesis of cholesterol by cells.

Against this background, the lifestyle is subject to adjustments, a diet is additionally prescribed, in which, as you can understand, products containing cholesterol are subject to the maximum exclusion.

As for drug treatment, it is based on taking the following types of drugs:

nicotinic acid in combination with its derivatives (providing the possibility of lowering cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, as well as increasing the content of lipoproteins with high density due to them);
fibrates (drugs of this group provide a decrease in the synthesis of their own fats by the body);
statins (provide the ability to reduce cholesterol in the most effective way by influencing the processes of their production by the body itself);
sequestrants (provide binding and excretion of bile acids from the intestines while reducing cholesterol and fats in cells).

Atherosclerosis may require, in some cases, surgical treatment, which is important in case of a serious threat or the development of an acute form of blockage by a thrombus or artery plaque. To do this, endarterectomy (open surgery on the artery) or endovascular surgery (dilatation of the artery, installation in the area of stent narrowing, due to which an obstacle to subsequent blockage is provided) can be performed. A pronounced form of atherosclerosis with damage to the vessels of the heart, against which a myocardial infarction may develop, requires coronary artery bypass grafting.

Yandex.Zen

Inflammation of the lungs (officially pneumonia) is an inflammatory process in one or both respiratory organs, which is usually infectious in nature and is caused by various viruses, bacteria and fungi. In ancient times, this disease was considered one of the most dangerous, and although modern treatments allow you to quickly and without consequences get rid of the infection, the disease has not lost its relevance. According to official figures, in our country every year about a million people suffer from pneumonia in one form or another.

Symptoms

With damage to the arteries of the intestine, the following symptoms are noted:

pain with localization in the upper or middle part of the abdominal cavity 15-60 minutes after eating (lasts up to 1.5 hours);
constipation or, conversely, diarrhea (manifested individually, depending on the dysfunction of intestinal motility);
bloating;
vomiting and nausea;
dizziness.

With damage to the arteries of the kidneys, symptoms such as:

pain with localization in the lumbar zone;
headache;
increased fatigue;
dyspnea;
pain in the region of the heart muscle;
dizziness;
increased blood pressure.

Risk group

The risk group includes females and males with:

increased cholesterol in the body;
high blood pressure (blood pressure);
the presence of diabetes;
addiction to food containing animal fats;
addiction to smoking.

How does it appear and develop?

Limited bowel infarction

Atherosclerosis of the arteries of the intestine begins with the deposition of cholesterol plaques and narrowing of the vessels that feed the gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract). As a result, there is a lack of blood supply (ischemia). There are diffuse pains in the abdominal cavity. It is very problematic to establish the cause of the latter, which is why patients have been unsuccessfully treated for years for problems with the intestines. As a result, blood flow stops in the affected area and necrosis.

Atherosclerosis of the arteries of the kidneys occurs for the same reason as atherosclerosis of the intestinal vessels. Due to poor blood flow in the kidneys, the synthesis of substances that provoke high blood pressure begins. This is a compensatory response. It helps the kidneys to get enough oxygen. But with persistent ischemia (lack of blood supply), hypertension develops, which leads to damage to blood vessels and the heart muscle.

How dangerous is atherosclerosis of the arteries of the intestines and kidneys

If the abdominal vessels are involved in the pathological process, coronary disease may occur with the gradual necrosis of part of the intestinal tract. Further, the prognosis is unfavorable, with a threat to life.

If the renal vessels are affected, there is a possibility of kidney infarction with tissue necrosis, as well as the appearance of persistent hypertension and heart disease. Possible risk of death due to myocardial infarction, cardiovascular or renal failure.

Treatment Methods

The main treatment for this type of disease is surgery.

For atherosclerosis of the intestinal arteries, the following are used:

conditionally reconstructive intervention with vascular decompensation - dissection of the falciform ligament, release from fibrous tissues, removal of intersections and ganglia of nerve fibers in the solar plexus region, intersection of the middle crus of the diaphragm;

reconstructive intervention with endarterectomy, resection, prosthetics or reimplantation in the aorta, stenosis and angioplasty.

With atherosclerosis of the renal arteries, it is recommended:

operations on the vessels of the kidneys for their revascularization (endarterectomy with arterial plasty, transaortal endarterectomy);

surgery on the kidney resection type.

Conservative therapy is used extremely rarely. It is used in exceptional cases when there is no possibility for surgical treatment. It can also complement it and serve as support during postoperative recovery.

Atherosclerosis is one of the most common circulatory diseases in the world. This pathology is characterized by damage to the arteries due to a violation of those processes that ensure the processing of fats. Ultimately, after the deposition of cholesterol (or other type of fat) on the inner wall of the vessel, there is a loss of its elasticity and firmness. And this already leads to a deterioration in blood supply.

All diseases related to cardiovascular diseases are dangerous for their consequences. Complications are the cause of death of patients. And we are talking not only about a heart attack or stroke, but also many other pathologies. For example, tissue necrosis or the development of diseases associated with the affected organ.

As statistics show, atherosclerosis, the definition of which we have given, is more common in urbanized countries, in large cities, and more often observed in elderly people, and the risk of atherosclerosis in men is 2-3 times higher than in women.

What is affected in atherosclerosis?

As already mentioned, with atherosclerosis, the arteries are primarily affected. However, in the future, depending on which particular areas are susceptible to the disease, there is a possibility of damage to other organs.

When the coronary arteries are damaged, the heart suffers. And if the necessary measures are not taken, then the risk of a heart attack or the development of angina pectoris is high.
The carotid arteries affect the brain. Their poor performance can lead to a stroke or to a transient ischemic attack (the same as a microstroke).
With atherosclerosis of peripheral arteries, blood circulation in the extremities may worsen, which leads to the formation of gangrene.
Atherosclerosis of the intestinal arteries is the cause of intestinal infarction.

Among the most dangerous complications, two can be distinguished: aortic rupture (aneurysm) and coronary heart disease. So, as a result of a rupture of the aorta, there is an almost instantaneous loss of blood, which often leads to death. In the second case, the vessels leading to the myocardium constrict, thereby causing a heart attack.

Damage to the vessels of the neck

Let us consider in more detail atherosclerosis of the carotid arteries - the vessels of the neck, as it is encountered more often. Note that
these vessels affect not only the brain, but the entire central nervous system.

One of the main causes of the development of the disease in this area is cervical osteochondrosis. Pathology can be identified by characteristic symptoms that vary depending on what stage the patient is at.

Thus, it is customary to distinguish three stages:

At the first, there is a noticeable decrease in working capacity, there are: fatigue, memory impairment, apathy, absent-mindedness, headache and dizziness, tinnitus. Sleep disturbance often occurs.
In the second stage, all the same symptoms can be observed, but in a more pronounced form. Sometimes they are added to: irritability, a sharp decline in strength, causeless fears or paranoia.
On the third appear: a decrease in mental activity, deterioration in coordination of movement, disorientation.

Most often, atherosclerosis affects the arteries of the brachiocephalic group; for example, vertebrates and carotid. Examination of atherosclerosis helps to prevent this. For example, procedures such as transcranial dopplerography and MRI are now popular.

Thus, the complications of this type of disease can be called:

Transient ischemic attacks;
Dementia (dementia).

Another common type is atherosclerosis of the arteries of the lower extremities, in which peripheral vessels are affected. It is worth noting here that with damage to peripheral vessels, not only the legs, but also the hands can suffer, but this happens many times less often.

It is quite difficult to identify the disease in time, since only 10-12% of patients show symptoms. In this case, all the same examinations and diagnostics can help.

The symptoms again depend on the stage at which the patient is. There are four of them in total:

At the first, they usually observe: pain in the legs with a long walk, a tingling sensation, severe sweating. A person can easily walk a distance of 1 km.
On the second: pain in the legs intensifies, intermittent chromate, there is a lack of blood supply. A person is able to easily overcome 200 m.
On the third: the pain manifests itself even in a calm state, during rest. It is difficult for a person to overcome a distance of 25 m.
On the fourth: tissue atrophy, signs of gangrene.

To the common question about which arteries are most often affected in atherosclerosis of the lower extremities, experts say that these are the femoral ones.

Among the most common complications are the following:

With atherosclerosis, tissue nutrition is disrupted, that is, ischemia occurs. This leads to gangrene. However, do not think that the only way to get rid of it is amputation; To date, many other methods of treatment have been invented. For example, with the help of special preparations;
Heart attack.

As already mentioned, this type of disease is almost not common, but it cannot be bypassed. The reasons for which it occurs are no different from other species.

There are symptoms, for example, such: cramps in the hands, pallor of the hands, cold palms, temporary absence of a pulse at the wrist.

Without proper treatment, very deplorable consequences appear:

tissue necrosis;
Swelling of the hands caused by changes in blood flow;
Formation of gangrene on the fingers.

Atherosclerosis of the renal arteries

The defeat of the renal vessels inevitably leads to a deterioration in the functioning of the kidneys. A feature of this type of disease is the appearance of symptomatic vasorenal hypertension, which is considered difficult to treat. Also, the patient, especially if he suffers from diabetes, has a risk of kidney failure.

Among the most noticeable symptoms is high blood pressure. It, most often, does not go beyond dangerous limits, but for a long time it keeps at a level higher than normal. Other signs are: problems with urination, pain in the abdomen, low levels of potassium in the blood.

So, among the consequences of the disease are:

Stenosis. The narrowing of the lumen in the vessel leads to the fact that the kidney begins to "dry out", and its activity noticeably worsens or stops altogether;
Rupture of a vessel due to an aneurysm of the renal artery.

General complications

There is a good table in one of the medical reference books illustrating the consequences of atherosclerosis.

Complication	Mechanism	Examples
Narrowing and calcification of the vessel	Rapid growth of fibrous plaque Hemorrhage into plaque	Myocardial ischemia
Thrombus formation with occlusion of the lumen	Plaque rupture Hemorrhage into plaque	Myocardial infarction, angina pectoris brain infarction
Peripheral embolisms	Movement of atheromatous material from large vessels to smaller ones	Embolic stroke kidney failure
Reducing the strength of the vessel wall	Muscle cell atrophy	aortic aneurysm

Atherosclerosis of the intestine: symptoms and treatment

Atherosclerosis of the intestinal arteries is a disease in which cholesterol is deposited on the walls of blood vessels, thereby disrupting the proper supply of nutrients to the organ. This pathology has the following symptoms:

There are many reasons why the disease can occur, but the most common factors are inflammation of the vessels, heart failure, a tumor that compresses the arteries, and some congenital ailments.

Atherosclerosis of the intestinal vessels, the symptoms of which we examined, is usually divided into stages. In our case, there are three of them:

At the first stage, ischemia occurs, that is, a decrease in blood circulation. With proper and prompt treatment, the disease will stop, and the intestines will again work normally.
Further, symptoms begin to develop rapidly, which, in most cases, leads to the death of the intestine. This process is accompanied by severe pain.
In the end, there will be a disintegration of the intestine, which will inevitably lead to death.

In time, the disease can be detected only with the help of laboratory diagnostics. Usually they resort to methods such as ultrasound, FGS and aortoarteriography.

If a pathology is detected, the necessary measures are urgently taken. All treatment should be carried out under medical supervision. Therapy usually includes the following:

A special diet aimed at lowering the level of lipids and cholesterol in the patient's blood.

Of course, you don’t need to think about the treatment of folk remedies, because they will not bring the desired effect. And we have already spoken in detail about the consequences and complications that occur due to incorrect or completely insufficient treatment.