What should I do if I have arteriosclerosis?
Disease description:
The elderly at home often experience numbness in their limbs. After examination, it was found to be arterial硬化 (arteriosclerosis). What should be done if one develops arteriosclerosis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease primarily characterized by thickening of the blood vessel walls and reduced elasticity, leading to increased resistance to blood flow. It is a common cause of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. The treatment of atherosclerosis should address the following aspects:
1. Diet: Maintain a low-salt and low-fat diet, and consume more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and other foods rich in fiber and vitamins.
2. Exercise: Under a doctor's guidance, actively engage in aerobic exercises such as running, cycling, and swimming to control body weight and enhance metabolic function.
3. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption: Long-term smoking and excessive alcohol intake can accelerate the progression of atherosclerosis. Therefore, smoking should be discontinued as early as possible and alcohol intake limited.
4. Medication: Depending on the patient's condition, medications such as antihypertensive drugs, lipid-lowering drugs, and antiplatelet agents may be required. These medications can help control blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and prevent thrombosis, thereby slowing the progression of atherosclerosis.
5. Surgical treatment: For severe cases of atherosclerosis, surgical interventions such as endarterectomy or angioplasty may be necessary.
