Understanding Heart Plaques
When it comes to cardiovascular health, recognizing the nature and effects of cardiac plaques is important. To combat cardiac illness, SRM Global Hospitals- the best heart hospital in Chennai focuses on novel diagnostic procedures and customized treatment programs. Dr. T.R. Muralidharan-the best cardiologist in Chennaileads the Institute of cardiac sciences at SRM Global hospitals.
What is Plaque?
Plaque is a buildup of materials such as cholesterol and fat in the coronary arteries. This is known as atherosclerosis, and may block blood flow and raise the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Plaques in the heart are classified into three categories depending on their composition
- Soft Plaques: These plaques are mostly low density, consists of fat and connective tissue. They are more dangerous because they are prone to breaking down, causing blood clots and cardiac arrests.
- Non-Calcified Plaques: They consist of fibrous substances and carry a moderate risk of developing cardiac blockages or ruptures.
- Calcified Plaques: They are comprised primarily of calcium, least likely to rupture and cause heart attacks.
How Plaque Develops
Plaque or atherosclerosis occurs when cholesterol, fat, and other chemicals collect in the artery walls. This build-up may result in inflammation as white blood cells try to eliminate the foreign particles. Factors such as high cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, obesity, smoking, type 2 diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, a diet rich in unhealthy fats, coupled with a family history of atherosclerosis all increase the likelihood of plaque.
Routine cardiovascular screening methods such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels provides indications about the presence of plaque but may not be accurate. Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is one of the most accurate methods to detect plaque.
This minimally invasive investigation creates 3-D pictures of the heart and coronary arteries, that allows doctors to determine and evaluate the quantity and type of plaque present.
Treatment interventions suggested by Best Heart Doctors in chennai:
Treatment for coronary plaque will be based on the degree and kind of plaque present.
Prevention:
Healthy Eating
The food you eat influences the health of your arteries and cardiac health. According to The British Heart Foundation, reducing the intake of saturated fats improves heart health. Saturated fats are high in LDL cholesterol that can cause blockage in the arteries.
Healthy Fats
Unsaturated fats contain HDL cholesterol, which helps remove bad cholesterol from the arteries. Healthy fats are found in avocados, olives, walnuts, sunflower, nuts and seeds, and fatty fish such as salmon.
Heart-Healthy Diet Tips
The Indian Heart Association recommends eating lots of fruits and vegetables, nuts, whole grains, low-fat dairy, fish, and poultry. Try to limit sugary foods, red meat, and sugary drinks to keep your heart in good shape.
Herbal Teas
Herbal teas can be a good addition to a heart-healthy diet. The intake of green tea has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels and total cholesterol. Ginger tea might also help improve the level of cardiac health markers.
Stay Active
A consistent exercise routine is important to maintain a healthy weight and thereby reducing heart disease risk. Activities such as cycling, running, jogging, brisk walking, swimming etc helps to burn the necessary energy and contribute to heart health. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week and two days of strength training each week.
Manage Stress
Stress increases the risk of atherosclerosis. Practices like yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises can help you manage stress and keep your heart healthy.
Medical and Surgical Interventions
Along with lifestyle changes, your doctor might prescribe medications such as statins to lower LDL cholesterol. In extreme situations surgical procedures like stent insertion or heart bypass surgery may be required to restore blood flow to the heart. Book a consultation with Dr. T.R. Muralidharan – best cardiologists in Chennai at SRM Global Hospitals to understand best treatment options suitable for you.
