Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the arteries become hardened due to cholesterol buildup on them. Blood tests are normally conducted to find out if there is an obstruction in the artery. However, sometimes, the cause of atherosclerosis is unknown. In such cases, doctors often use a combination of blood tests and lab tests to determine the exact cause of the disease. These tests include a cholesterol profile, arterial blood pressure and blood samples.
Blood tests will reveal increased levels of blood sugar and cholesterol that can increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis. You will need to stop drinking or eating anything except water for at least nine hours prior to your blood test. Your doctor will also want to measure your blood pressure while you are fasting and then you will be advised what to expect after fasting.
Blood samples are generally collected during a series of blood tests called echocardiograms. The first one is performed when you are admitted for an angina attack. The second is done when you have a heart attack. When the physician detects inflammation in the arteries that will affect the function of the artery walls, he will perform a blood test to identify the cause of the inflammation.
Cholesterol levels in the body are determined by the amount of the cholesterol in the blood. When there is cholesterol in the blood, it is said to be high or low. If the cholesterol level is low, then the body is in a healthy state. If the cholesterol level is high, the body needs to be treated. The blood cholesterol levels will be higher if the person is suffering from heart disease and high cholesterol or if they are taking some kind of medication.
Blood tests to determine the causes of atherosclerosis will involve performing a cholesterol profile. Blood tests will also reveal any abnormalities in the cholesterol levels. If the levels are too high or too low, it is important to consult your doctor.
Blood test results will also reveal if there is inflammation present in the arteries. Inflammation refers to damage to the cells by enzymes and other substances. The inflammation can be caused by a wide range of factors. The inflammation could be caused by any number of conditions including infections, high blood pressure or even injury to the arterial walls.
Blood tests that indicate if there is inflammation are laboratory tests that test for proteins known as coagulation factors and markers. Some of these markers include fibrinogen and fibrinolytic protein. Other tests include lactic acid levels. This test is usually performed after a patient has undergone coronary angiography.
There is no definite cure for atherosclerosis, but it can be controlled with certain procedures. One of these procedures is the replacement of the atherosclerotic plaque by the body's own cells.
Surgical procedure: In this surgical procedure, the wall of the artery is cut and a scar is applied. Sometimes part of the tissue surrounding the artery is removed along with the scar. When the artery is cut, the scar tissue is removed. This part of the arterial wall is known as arthroscopy.
Arteriovenous chelation: This procedure involves injecting the chemical arachidonic acid into the ligation of the artery. When a chemical reacts with arachidonic acid, it dissolves arterial plaque. In the process, the chemical releases oxygen into the bloodstream. This procedure reduces the activity of the oxidizing agent.
Calcium channel blockers: Calcium channel blockers help slow the movement of arterial plaque through the arteries by blocking the entry of calcium ions into the bloodstream. These chemicals can be used to treat hypertension and hypercholesterolemia.
Medical research shows that there is no cure for atherosclerosis. There are various types of treatments that can control and slow its progression. However, this treatment can significantly reduce the symptoms associated with this condition. It is best to consult your doctor and website fitzpatrickperio.com for advice on the type of treatment that will work best for you.