Hypertension
Hypertension or high blood pressure can be one of the symptoms of atherosclerosis. Hypertension is closely related to cardiac diseases and has been identified as one factor that increases the chance of a fatal stroke or heart attack. However, it is a silent disease, gradually building up over time due to unhealthy dietary choices, obesity, diabetes, not getting exercise and sleep, and other similar factors.
Hypertension is defined as blood pressure that is higher than normal. Blood pressure is the amount of pressure the blood exerts on the arterial walls. Plaque buildup narrows the arteries, and blood doesn’t have enough pathways to circulate properly. The plaque hinders the blood from circulating, and its presence increases the pressure on the arterial walls. Eventually, the arterial walls become damaged, leading to other complications.
Doctors could treat hypertension relative to atherosclerosis, depending on the underlying cause. Some doctors would ask for a barrage of additional tests such as blood tests, ECG or EKG, an exercise stress test, and Doppler ultrasound to accurately diagnose the condition and provide an individualized treatment plan. Medical experts typically turn to blood pressure medications, aspirin, statins, and other anti-high cholesterol drugs to manage the condition properly.
