Question

Explain how atherosclerosis affects cardiovascular health and function. (You must discuss specific details about mechanics of the pump (heart) and vessels in your answer including preload and afterload.)

Answer 1

Atherosclerosis is narrowing of arteries which is caused by build-up of fat, cholesterol and other substances in the inner layer of artery walls. It result in thickening and narrowing of arteries. It is mostly symptom less until the person gets heart attack or stroke. To pass blood through an atherosclerotic artery, heart have to pump blood more forcefully. This leads to increased blood pressure .When bad cholesterol or LDL passes through a damaged endothelium, it enters the wall of the artery .Over the time cholesterol and cell become plaque in the wall of artery. It can occur in any artery like heart, legs and kidneys .It reduces the blood flow to the tissues of the body Atherosclerotic plaque can burst which can stimulate formation of blood clot. Atherosclerosis of coronary artery lead to coronary artery diseases, angina .Even rupture of Atherosclerotic plaque cause death of heart muscle. Atherosclerosis plaques are formed in intima layer by lipid accumulation in macrophages and monocyte adhesion.

Atherosclerosis causes increase in left ventricular afterload. Prolonged period of raised afterload lead to hypertrophy of cardiac muscle. Preload changes secondary to changes in afterload.