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Step 2: The Problem
ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION
A healthy artery is tough on the outside and smooth on the inside. Arteries actually consist of three layers: an outer layer of tissue, a muscular middle, and a silky inner layer of epithelial cells. The inner layer THE ENDOTHELIUM - is supposed to be slick like Teflon, allowing blood to flow unobstructed. The muscular middle layer is elastic and strong, helping the heart pump blood through miles of blood vessels.
As the heart beats, the arteries expand, filling with blood. When the heart relaxes, the arteries contract, and blood is pushed through. This synchronicity between the arteries and the heart results in efficient circulation. Most Cardiovascular problems begin in the endothelial lining or inner lining of the artery becoming more like Velcro and through inflammatory processes building up with plaques and stiffening.
Problem #1 - Plaque Build up
Over many years, plaque builds up on artery walls. Plaque is a sticky, yellow substance made of fatty substances like cholesterol, as well as calcium and waste products from your cells. It narrows and clogs the arteries, slowing the flow of blood. Sometimes plaque in an artery can rupture. The body's repair system in turn creates a blood clot to heal the wound. The clot, however, can block the artery, leading to either a heart attack or stroke.
Numerous contributing factors can create plaque buildup within the arteries. Adding on extra pounds over the years, lack of exercise, too many "happy hours", developing diabetes or years of smoking may lead to narrowed arteries.
Problem #2 Stiffening of the artery wall
Like water through a hose, blood flows through your arteries, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your organs. When your arteries age they lose their elasticity and due to collection of plaque they narrow. This blocks or slows the smooth passage of blood.
Problem #3 Free Radical damage to the cells producing inflammation
"Inflammation" is the process by which the body responds to injury or an infection. Laboratory evidence and findings from clinical and population studies suggest that inflammation is important in atherosclerosis This is the process in which fatty deposits build up in the inner lining of arteries. The herpes simplex virus has also been proposed as an initial inflammatory infectious agent in atherosclerosis.
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