What Are the Results of Hardening of the Arteries

It is the end or latter stages of hardening of the arteries that present the greatest risk of serious illness. In fact in the early stages may not produce any symptoms at all. In this article titled "The Results of Hardening of The Arteries" we will briefly give an overview of this dangerous condition and then explore some of the results of hardening of the arteries seen in the latter stages.

Do you recognize the word lumen? For most the answer would be no but in the world of hardening of the arteries it is an important word to know. The lumen in the space within the artery tube which begins to narrow as hardening of the arteries progresses. As the lumen narrows blow and oxygen flow are gradually reduced to the affected organ (stomach, eyes, legs, brain, kidneys, liver, heart). If left untreated eventually blockage will become so severe that noticeable, and potentially deadly, symptoms will appear.

The results of hardening of the arteries - Late stage symptoms

*Leg pain - Pain in this area of the body is not unusual for those with artery disease. The pain generally becomes more noticeable when a person is walking and may disappear when he/she stops. As the condition progresses pain becomes more frequent and often is a constant nagging reminder that something is wrong; even when at rest or when lounging in the evenings.

*High blood pressure - If the arteries supplying the kidneys are affected, an individual may develop high blood pressure or kidney failure.

*Chest pain (angina) - This type of pain is produced when blood flow to the heart is reduced. Leg pain typically occurs when a person is exerting themselves and disappears when the activity ceases. Classically, angina is a tight, heavy, oppressive sensation in the middle of the chest. Rarely, angina can occur at rest and is an indication that the condition is becoming unstable and possibly life threatening.

*Sweating, anxiety, shortness of breath, chest pain: These are all signs that the hardening of the arteries may be occurring in the coronary arteries. Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease with 445, 687 people dying from this condition in the United States in 2005; according to the CDC.

In conclusion keeping the heart strong and the arteries open are two of the most important cornerstones of health and longevity. Most experts believe that to achieve this heart healthy lifestyle choices will be necessary (low fat diet, quitting smoking) along with daily exercise, and a natural cholesterol reduction supplement or prescription medication if needed. It goes without saying that if you start to notice any of the results of hardening of the arteries listed above you should immediately contact your doctor.