Arteriosclerosis

Arterial circulatory disorders are in most cases the result of progressive arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). This involves the accumulation of harmful metabolic products in the artery walls. With increasing age, this can lead to narrowing or blockages in the arteries. Stroke and heart attack are the most well-known consequences of such circulatory disorders, as sensitive organs such as the heart and brain require a lot of oxygen; oxygen deficiency is particularly harmful here. However, the extremities are also at risk. Several organs
are often affected by an arterial circulatory disorder. Patients with circulatory disorders in the legs also have an increased risk of suffering a stroke or heart attack.

What are the risk factors?

High blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, smoking, high blood lipid levels and elevated cholesterol, lack of exercise, unhealthy diet and stress are risk factors that greatly accelerate the development of arteriosclerosis – especially since many people are exposed to several of these harmful influences at the same time.

What can you do to prevent arteriosclerosis?

A healthy lifestyle – a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, low stress – prevents arteriosclerosis. There is a good chance of remaining symptom-free into old age. According to current knowledge, advanced arteriosclerosis cannot be reversed, but its progression can be significantly slowed down and perhaps even stopped, and the symptoms can be alleviated. It is crucial to consistently eliminate risk factors – minimise negative influences and strengthen positive ones!  

See your GP regularly!
Have your blood pressure, blood sugar, fat and uric acid levels properly adjusted and checked regularly. Report any changes or new symptoms during your consultation. If you experience sudden pain in your chest or leg, go to the doctor's surgery immediately or call them!

Stop smoking!
It has now been proven beyond doubt that smoking is one of the most aggressive risk factors for the development of arteriosclerosis. Stop smoking! Because this is not so easy: seek advice on the smoking cessation programmes available and how you can participate in them.  

Get more exercise!
Especially if your arterial circulation disorder is not yet very advanced, regular, consistent and intensive walking training can be more effective than some medications. Regular exercise can cause the vessels surrounding the narrowed vessel to dilate, allowing more oxygen-rich blood to be transported to the muscles. However, you must stick with it and exercise regularly. Seek advice on how to find vascular exercise groups and how you can participate in them. Most health insurance companies contribute to the costs. 

Eat right
Make sure you eat a healthy, balanced and low-fat diet. You should also drink enough fluids (at least 2.5 litres per day), but avoid alcohol if possible.

The lifestyle change is worth it: regular (walking) exercise combined with a balanced diet and the right medication will significantly improve your quality of life, halt arteriosclerosis and hopefully make surgery unnecessary. If it continues to develop, the arteries must be restored to patency through surgery – endovascularly with the aid of a catheter or in open surgery. You will be advised on this in vascular surgery.