What does smoking lead to?
Smoking speeds up the growth of ATHEROSCLEROSIS.
Nicotine and carbon monoxide present in cigarettes increases blood clotting, damage the lining in blood vessels which sets the stage for build-up of plaque and increase the blood pressure and heart rate. On the other hand, tobacco damage the function of the heart, the structure and function of blood vessels. The toxins in tobacco smoke lower a person's high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL or "good" cholesterol) while raising levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL or "bad" cholesterol).
Nicotine and carbon monoxide present in cigarettes increases blood clotting, damage the lining in blood vessels which sets the stage for build-up of plaque and increase the blood pressure and heart rate. On the other hand, tobacco damage the function of the heart, the structure and function of blood vessels. The toxins in tobacco smoke lower a person's high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL or "good" cholesterol) while raising levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL or "bad" cholesterol).
What is Atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is a condition where the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to an excessive build-up of plaque around the artery wall. Plaque is usually made up of cholesterol and macrophage of white blood cells. It disrupts the flow of blood around the body, posing serious cardiovascular complications. Cardiovascular (CVD) is the second leading cause of mortality in Singapore. accounting for 29.5% of all deaths in 2013. Conditions such as atherosclerosis and hypertension are common causes of the disease. Elderly, smokers, or those who are overweight or diabetic are more prone to developing cardiovascular disease.
Description:
White blood cells are sent by the body's immune system to lower the cholesterol levels and saturated fats in the blood. Instead, they end up sticking to the inner walls of the artery. Over time, the fats, cholesterol, platelets, cellular debris and calcium accumulate in the artery wall, forming plaque which obstructs blood flow. As the plaque builds up, the arterial wall becomes significantly thickened. This narrows the lumen of the artery, reducing blood flow and possibly damage the artery walls. Due to the damage on the arterial walls, often blood clot forms at the affected area, further narrowing the lumen.
Description:
White blood cells are sent by the body's immune system to lower the cholesterol levels and saturated fats in the blood. Instead, they end up sticking to the inner walls of the artery. Over time, the fats, cholesterol, platelets, cellular debris and calcium accumulate in the artery wall, forming plaque which obstructs blood flow. As the plaque builds up, the arterial wall becomes significantly thickened. This narrows the lumen of the artery, reducing blood flow and possibly damage the artery walls. Due to the damage on the arterial walls, often blood clot forms at the affected area, further narrowing the lumen.
Common Causes of Atherosclerosis
Symptoms of Atherosclerosis
Carotid Arteries
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ROAD TO RECOVERY
IT IS NEVER TOO LATE!
ACCORDING TO RESEARCH, THE HEALING PROCESS IN THE BODY WILL START WITHIN 20 MINUTES OF YOUR LAST CIGARETTE.
ACCORDING TO RESEARCH, THE HEALING PROCESS IN THE BODY WILL START WITHIN 20 MINUTES OF YOUR LAST CIGARETTE.
Adopt a Healthy LifestyleFocus on consistently exercising and consuming a healthy diet. It is recommended to eat food and limit intake of food high in saturated fats, sodium and cholesterol.
Exercise:
Healthy Diet:
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Take Medication
Patients can take medicines prescribed by the doctor to prevent blood clots, lower cholesterol level and control the blood pressure
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SurgeryIf the situation is severe, patients may have to go through angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
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