Arteriosclerosis

Welcome to the Arteriosclerosis Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group in Dubai. Our specialized clinic offers expert diagnosis, treatment, and management of arteriosclerosis. Our team of highly skilled cardiologists and vascular specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care to help you manage this condition effectively and enhance your overall cardiovascular health.

What is Arteriosclerosis?

Arteriosclerosis involves the gradual thickening and stiffening of the arterial walls, often due to factors such as age, high blood pressure, and cholesterol buildup. This condition can lead to narrowed arteries, reduced blood flow, and an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we focus on early detection and comprehensive treatment to manage arteriosclerosis and improve your quality of life.

Arteriosclerosis Treatments

Our clinic offers a range of procedures and treatments designed to manage and treat arteriosclerosis:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Initial management often includes lifestyle changes such as adopting a heart-healthy diet, increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake. Our specialists provide personalized guidance to help you implement these changes effectively.
• Medications: We may prescribe medications to manage risk factors associated with arteriosclerosis, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Common medications include antihypertensives, statins, and antiplatelet drugs.
• Angioplasty and Stenting: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a balloon catheter into the narrowed artery to widen it and improve blood flow. A stent may be placed to keep the artery open and prevent re-narrowing.
• Endarterectomy: This surgical procedure involves removing plaque from the arterial walls to restore normal blood flow. It is considered for severe cases where other treatments are insufficient.
• Bypass Surgery: In cases where angioplasty and stenting are not suitable, bypass surgery may be performed to create an alternative pathway for blood flow around the blocked artery.

Arteriosclerosis Causes

Arteriosclerosis can be caused by several factors, including:

• Atherosclerosis: The most common cause, involving the buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries, leading to thickening and hardening of the arterial walls.
• High Blood Pressure: Chronic high blood pressure can damage the arterial walls, leading to arteriosclerosis.
• High Cholesterol Levels: Elevated cholesterol levels contribute to plaque formation and arterial stiffening.
• Diabetes: Diabetes can accelerate the development of arteriosclerosis by increasing blood sugar levels and promoting inflammation.
• Smoking: Tobacco use contributes to arterial damage and increases the risk of arteriosclerosis.

Arteriosclerosis Symptoms

Symptoms of arteriosclerosis may vary depending on the affected arteries and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Chest Pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest due to reduced blood flow to the heart.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
• Leg Pain: Pain or cramping in the legs during walking or exercise, known as claudication.
• Fatigue: General fatigue or weakness due to reduced blood flow.
• Stroke Symptoms: Sudden numbness, weakness, confusion, or difficulty speaking, if the carotid arteries are affected.

Arteriosclerosis Diagnosis

Diagnosing arteriosclerosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Our specialists will review your medical history and perform a physical examination to assess risk factors and symptoms.
• Imaging Studies: Techniques such as ultrasound, CT angiography, or MRI may be used to visualize the arterial walls and identify areas of narrowing or blockage.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and markers of inflammation.
• Stress Testing: A stress test may be performed to evaluate how well your heart functions during physical exertion and detect any issues with blood flow.

Arteriosclerosis Recovery Process

Managing and recovering from arteriosclerosis involves a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and ongoing care:

• Ongoing Management: Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring your condition and adjusting treatment as needed. Our specialists will work with you to ensure effective management of arteriosclerosis.
• Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking are crucial for managing arteriosclerosis and improving overall cardiovascular health.
• Medication Adherence: Taking prescribed medications as directed is essential for managing risk factors and preventing complications.
• Patient Education: We provide comprehensive education on managing arteriosclerosis, including information on recognizing symptoms, adhering to treatment plans, and making lifestyle changes to support your recovery.
• Supportive Care: Our clinic offers emotional and psychological support to help you cope with the challenges of living with arteriosclerosis. We are committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment for all our patients.