Atherosclerosis may be asymptomatic for decades, but eventually the plaques may cause a significant narrowing of the heart arteries – restricting blood supply to the heart muscle – resulting in angina (usually with exercise / physical activity), or if this occurs suddenly (i.e. vessel occlusion) it will cause a ‘heart attack’
Risk factors for atherosclerosis include: being overweight, diabetes, smoking, lack of physical exercise and a poor diet
If the atherosclerotic plaque has not narrowed the arteries to a significant degree (usually at least 70%) then there may be no symptoms at all
Angina can present differently depending on the person, especially in diabetic patients. Classically, angina is described as a central chest pressure / tightness that may radiate to the arm or jaw. It is triggered by exercise and relieved with rest (except in the case of a sudden heart attack)
Lifestyle modifications:
Medications:
There are many classes of medications, but the most commonly prescribed medications include:
Intervention:
For patients with significant symptoms despite medications or with very severe vessel narrowing, an intervention may be required:
Cardiology Tasmania has 6 specialist centres located in Derwent Park, Huonville, Oatland, Swansea, Rokeby, and Sorell. As well as our fixed locations, our cardiology specialists and consultants travel to regional and remote areas to ensure all patients have access to cardiology services regardless of where they live.
Northcare Health Centre, 254 Main Road, Derwent Park, TAS
Swansea General Practice, 37 Wellington Street, Swansea, TAS
Healthology Rokeby, 46 S Arm Rd, Rokeby, TAS
Sorell Doctors Surgery, 31 Gordon Street, TAS
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