1. by:Graham Holmes, Jacob Peters, and Kassie Shepherd
Atherosclerosis
by:Graham Holmes, Jacob Peters, and Kassie Shepherd

2. Why is atherosclerosis called “heart disease?”
Can affect the arteries of the heart by creating blockages (This is called coronary artery disease).
Can cause heart attacks.
Most deaths are from heart attacks. (Over half of the deaths in America are caused by heart attacks).

3. What are the causes of Atherosclerosis?
Can be caused by High blood pressure, high cholesterol, high count of triglycerides, insulin resistance, Inflammation from other diseases, and smoking or use of other tobacco products.
Can cause damage to the inner wall, causing blood cells and other substances such as cholesterol to clump at the wall.
Over time plaque will build up, narrowing the arteries and slowing blood and oxygen flow.
Pieces of the plaque may eventually break off and enter the bloodstream, causing blood clots.
Blood clots can block blood flow to certain major arteries,
causes damage and potentially a heart attack or a stroke.
Blood clots can also worsen angina (chest pain)

4. Major Risk Factors of Atherosclerosis
High LDL and low HDL levels
Hypertension
Hyperlipidemia
Diabetes
Smoking
Family history
CRP levels

5. Other Risk Factors of Atherosclerosis
Sleep apnea
Stress
Alcohol
Ethnicity
Air pollution
Obesity
Lack of activity
Age
Homocystinuria
Male gender
Diet

6. Prevention of Atherosclerosis
Eat heart healthy foods
Don’t smoke, or quit smoking to delay atherosclerosis
Control your weight, make a weight loss plan with your doctor
Control your blood pressure

7. Is Atherosclerosis Reversible?
It’s not completely reversible.
In some cases, surgery is recommended or required
Some medications can slow down the process, such as cholesterol reducers, anti-platelet medications, beta blockers, and calcium blockers.
ACE inhibitors can also be used, as well.