What is it?
Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease in which plaques of cholesterol, fat and other substances build up in artery walls, narrowing the vessels and making them stiff. Less blood reaches the organs through a narrowed artery, and when a plaque ruptures a clot can form, leading to a heart attack or stroke. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death both in Uzbekistan and worldwide.
Atherosclerosis develops silently for years. Its main risk factors are high levels of 'bad' cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and physical inactivity. A blood test (lipid profile) can reveal the risk early, and lifestyle changes can lower it significantly.
Main symptoms
- Often no symptoms at all for a long time
- Chest pain or tightness during physical effort
- Calf pain when walking that goes away with rest
- Dizziness, poorer memory and concentration
- Hands and feet that often feel cold
- High cholesterol and triglycerides in a lipid profile
Causes and risk factors
- A diet high in fatty meat, fried food, margarine and fast food
- Smoking
- High blood pressure and diabetes
- Excess weight and inactivity
- Age (over 45 in men, over 55 in women) and genetics
- Chronic stress
Prevention and self-care
- 1
Get a lipid profile
After 40 (earlier if you have risk factors), have your cholesterol checked regularly.
- 2
Choose the right fats
Cut down on animal fat and fried food; eat more fish, nuts, flaxseed and olive oil. Oily fish twice a week is recommended.
- 3
Eat more fibre
Vegetables, fruit, oats and legumes bind cholesterol in the gut and help remove it.
- 4
Quit smoking
Smoking damages the artery wall and speeds up plaque formation.
- 5
Exercise regularly
At least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week raises 'good' cholesterol and lowers blood pressure.
- 6
Control blood pressure and sugar
When blood pressure and blood sugar are normal, your arteries stay young and healthy for longer.
When to see a doctor
Don't treat yourself in these cases — see a doctor:
- Crushing chest pain lasting more than 15 minutes — call 103 immediately
- Facial drooping, sudden weakness in an arm or leg, slurred speech (signs of stroke) — call 103 immediately
- Leg pain when walking keeps recurring
- Your lipid profile results are high
Nutva products to support your body
As a complement to a healthy lifestyle and your doctor's advice. These products are not medicines.
Nutva Omega-3
Each capsule provides 450 mg EPA and 300 mg DHA — omega-3 fatty acids in the well-absorbed rTG form. They support normal cardiovascular function and normal blood triglyceride levels.
If you take blood-thinning medication or have surgery planned, talk to your doctor before taking omega-3. This product does not replace medicines prescribed by your doctor.
Which product is right for you?
Our specialists offer free advice and will help you choose a product for your situation.
Call: 1294