As of: March 7, 2024, 4:52 a.m
By: Laura Knops
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Arteriosclerosis is particularly treacherous: the calcified arteries usually only become noticeable when it is already too late.
Calcified arteries are neither painful nor noticeable from the outside.
The problem: Since arteriosclerosis goes unnoticed for a long time, the consequences are often devastating.
Calcifications on the inner walls of the blood vessels disrupt the blood flow and, in the worst case, interrupt it.
If the plaque clogs the arteries, it can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
How do calcified arteries manifest themselves?
Inflammation in the arteries causes calcium to build up - in the long term this can lead to arteriosclerosis.
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The so-called calcifications, known in technical language as plaques, arise when the inner layer of the artery is damaged.
The cause of arteriosclerosis is a dysfunction of the inner lining of the blood vessels.
If the inner wall of the artery becomes inflamed, fats, calcium, connective tissue and small blood clots can build up there over time.
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Calcified arteries do not become noticeable for a long time.
The formation of calcifications and hardening is a process that takes years.
However, the first signs may include chest tightness and chest pain upon exertion.
Recurring pain in the legs also indicates calcified arteries.
If blood circulation is completely prevented, a heart attack occurs.
In the brain, however, arteriosclerosis can lead to a stroke.
Speech disorders and paralysis are serious warning signs.
Hardening of the arteries: Symptoms do not become noticeable for a long time
The signs depend largely on which arteries are affected.
According to the German Society for Vascular Surgery and Vascular Medicine,
arteriosclerosis can
affect the vessels around the heart, pelvis, thigh and carotid artery.
If the arteries narrow so much that blood flow is impaired, it is usually already too late.
A heart attack or stroke can occur without warning.
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While, according to the
German Vascular League,
around four million people in Germany suffer from pathological vascular changes, arteriosclerosis is only diagnosed in one in three.
Too little exercise, being overweight, an unhealthy diet, smoking and alcohol all contribute to hardening of the arteries.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.