Even at 30%, Artery Blockages Can Be Dangerous

As our lifestyles improve, we indulge in more high-fat foods, and obesity becomes increasingly common. Even if obesity starts in childhood, it can lead to the buildup of fat and cholesterol in our blood vessels, forming what we call “fat stripes.” While these might not cause artery blockages, heart attacks, or strokes right away, over time, they can increase the risk of heart and vascular diseases, especially by the time we hit our 30s.

Think of it like your home’s plumbing: with regular use, mineral deposits build up, eventually clogging the pipes and reducing water flow. Our blood vessels work similarly. With prolonged use, their elasticity decreases, and as more waste accumulates, clots and plaques form, blocking blood flow.

Artery blockages are like traffic jams; they might not cause problems immediately, but over time, accidents are inevitable. These blockages can lead to various health issues:

Head – Hardened arteries in the brain can cause strokes, leading to severe consequences like language difficulties, dizziness, and even deafness.

Heart – Blockages in heart arteries can result in angina and, over time, even heart attacks, potentially leading to sudden death.

Limbs – More blockages mean less blood flow, leading to symptoms like leg weakness, tremors, and even paralysis.

Kidneys – Blockages here can cause high blood pressure and kidney pain.

Now, you might think that a 30% blockage isn’t a big deal, but even minor blockages can lead to catastrophic consequences like sudden death. Take Mr. Zhao, for example. At 46, he experienced chest discomfort while on a train. Later, it was found that he had only a 30% blockage, but a ruptured plaque led to a blood clot, causing a near-death experience.

In theory, a 30-40% narrowing of arteries shouldn’t be a problem. However, there are exceptions: a ruptured plaque can cause a blood clot, leading to sudden death. Also, even tiny, stable plaques can become unstable with minor artery movements, posing a fatal risk.

So, how do you know if you have unstable plaques?

There are many tests available, but one effective method is optical coherence tomography (OCT), which provides clear images of the artery’s interior. But before rushing to the hospital, consider these two symptoms you can check at home:

Symptom 1: Frequent Chest Pain

Unstable plaques can cause more chest pain, and if the pain lasts longer than usual, seek medical help immediately.

Symptom 2: Pre-Infarction Signs

If you experience discomfort while doing activities, don’t ignore it; it could be a sign of something serious.

To stabilize unstable plaques:

1. Use medications like statins, which not only lower cholesterol but also stabilize plaques.

2. Control risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking.

By paying attention to your body and seeking timely medical help, you can prevent serious consequences like sudden death. So, stay vigilant and take care of your heart!

Photo Credit:

Photo by RF._.studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-woman-studying-anatomy-3059750/

Photo by JESHOOTS.com: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-holding-half-full-glass-and-white-medicine-pill-576831/

* Important: The information provided here is for general information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.