Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque builds up inside the arteries, narrowing the passageway that carries oxygen-rich blood to your organs and limbs. Over time, this buildup restricts blood flow, putting you at risk for serious complications like heart disease, stroke, or peripheral artery disease (PAD).
At United Vein & Vascular Centers, our board-certified specialists diagnose and treat atherosclerosis using advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques—helping restore circulation and protect your long-term health.
Common Symptoms of Atherosclerosis
Symptoms depend on which arteries are affected. Atherosclerosis often develops silently for years before causing noticeable issues. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Leg pain or cramping when walking (claudication)
- Numbness or weakness in the legs or arms
- Coldness or color changes in the lower legs or feet
- Slow-healing wounds or ulcers
- Chest pain or pressure (if heart arteries are affected)
- Shortness of breath or fatigue
- Dizziness or facial drooping (if carotid arteries are involved)
If left untreated, severe blockages can lead to heart attack, stroke, or limb loss.
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What Is Atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis occurs when fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances form deposits (plaque) inside the walls of your arteries. As the plaque hardens and thickens, it causes arteries to become stiff and narrow, reducing oxygen delivery to vital tissues.
While it can develop anywhere in the body, atherosclerosis most often affects:
- Coronary arteries (heart)
- Carotid arteries (neck/brain)
- Peripheral arteries (legs and feet)
- Renal arteries (kidneys)
Who Is at Risk for Atherosclerosis?
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Diabetes or insulin resistance
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Obesity or poor diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Family history of vascular disease
- Age (risk increases over time)
Even if you don’t have symptoms, you may benefit from a preventive vascular screening if you have one or more of these risk factors.
How We Diagnose Atherosclerosis
Our specialists use noninvasive vascular imaging to identify narrowing or blockages in the arteries before symptoms worsen. Diagnostic options include:
- Ultrasound (Doppler studies) to measure blood flow
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) to compare leg and arm blood pressures
These tests help us locate plaque buildup and create a personalized treatment plan that supports healthy circulation.
Atherosclerosis Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the location and severity of the blockage and your overall health. At UVVC, we focus on restoring blood flow through minimally invasive, outpatient procedures. All procedures are performed in our advanced outpatient centers, allowing most patients to return home the same day and resume normal activities quickly. Some of the treatment options include:
Angioplasty
A small balloon is inserted and gently inflated inside the artery to widen the narrowed area and improve circulation.
Stenting
A tiny mesh stent may be placed to keep the artery open and prevent future narrowing.
Atherectomy
A specialized device removes plaque from the artery walls to restore normal blood flow.
Medication Management
Prescriptions may help control blood pressure, cholesterol, or clotting risk.
Lifestyle Modification
Your provider may recommend changes such as a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking, regular exercise, and weight management to prevent progression.
All procedures are performed in our advanced outpatient centers, allowing most patients to return home the same day and resume normal activities quickly.
Why Early Detection Matters
Atherosclerosis is progressive but preventable. Detecting plaque buildup early helps stop further damage, improve oxygen delivery to your organs and limbs, and lower the risk of life-threatening complications.
Even small improvements in blood flow can dramatically enhance mobility, energy, and quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can still live a long life with atherosclerosis, especially if you catch it early and manage it correctly with guidance from a vascular specialist. Contact United Vein and Vascular Centers today to schedule your vascular health screening.
There is not a single best exercise to improve atherosclerosis. However, brisk walking and strength training can greatly improve heart health and lower your risk of complications.
The best treatment option for atherosclerosis is the one you and your vascular specialist determine together. The sooner you receive treatment, the better.
The main causes of atherosclerosis are high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, stress, diabetes, and some genetic factors.
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