Content
Aortic atheromatosis, also known as atheromatous disease of the aorta, occurs when there is an accumulation of fat and calcium in the aortic artery wall, interfering with blood and oxygen flow to the body. This is because the aortic artery is the main blood vessel in the body, being responsible for ensuring the arrival of blood to various organs and tissues.
Thus, as a consequence of the deposition of fat and other elements in the aorta, there is an obstruction and difficulty in the passage of blood, increasing the risk of the formation of clots and the person having a heart attack or stroke, for example.
This disease occurs mainly in men over 50 and women after menopause, and treatment varies according to the severity of atheromatosis, and the cardiologist may indicate that surgery should be performed to unblock the artery and restore blood flow to the body. .
Symptoms of aortic atheromatosis
Atheromatosis of the aorta is a slow and progressive process that usually does not lead to the appearance of signs or symptoms, being discovered only during routine blood and imaging tests. However, when the artery is quite blocked, it is possible that some symptoms may appear, such as:
- Chest pain;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Mental confusion;
- Weakness;
- Alteration of rhythm and heart rate.
It is important for the person to see the cardiologist as soon as they start showing symptoms of aortic atheromatosis, especially if they are in the group at risk for developing the disease. Thus, the doctor can indicate the performance of blood tests, electrocardiogram, ultrasound, Doppler exam and arteriography so that the diagnosis can be made and treatment can be started afterwards.
Who is most at risk
The risk factors that favor the development of atheromatosis of the aorta are the same as those related to atherosclerosis. Thus, people who have a family history, who have high blood pressure, cholesterol or triglycerides, diabetes, are over 50 years old and do not practice physical activity, are more at risk of developing atheromatosis of the aorta.
It is important to remember that this disease usually begins to develop in young adults and worsens over time and, although it is more frequent in adults, it can also appear in children with a family history of high cholesterol and overweight.
How the treatment is done
Treatment for aortic atheromatosis should be indicated by the cardiologist according to the person's general health condition and the degree of blood flow impairment. Thus, the use of medications that help control cholesterol and blood pressure, in addition to changing eating habits, may be indicated by the doctor. In addition, if the person is overweight, weight loss may be indicated in order to prevent the risk of complications, such as thrombosis and infarction.
In the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the fatty plaques from the artery or bypass the saphenous vein, improving blood circulation and promoting the person's health. Understand how the treatment is done.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team
Bibliography>
- ARAUJO, Carlos Alberto L .; NUNES, Colandy G. O .; JUNIOR, Luiz R. Aorta Atheroma and Embolism. Brazilian Journal of Echocardiography. 3rd ed; 2003
- ATIK, Fernando A. Risk factors of atheromatous aorta in cardiovascular surgery. Rev Bras Cir Cardiovasc. Vol 29. 4th ed; 487-493, 2014