ATHEROSCLEROSIS

It is a lesion initiated in response to injury to internal lining of artery, leaving endothelial cells exposed to damages (damage by free radicals, immune entities, physical, mechanical, viral, chemical and drug factors). Damage leads to affinity for cholesterol, monocytes and platelets forming plaque which grows with time.

Symptoms

Depends upon arteries involved and degree of obstruction. Some of them are
1) Angina – chest pain
2) Leg cramps
3) Gradual mental deterioration
4) Weakness, dizziness

Causative factors

1) Hypercholesterolemia
2) Hypertension
3) Smoking
4) Diabetes
5) Physical inactivity
6) Hypothyroidism

Investigations

1) Blood test – Lipid profile  
2) Colour Doppler

Therapeutic approach

1) Decrease saturated fat – decreasing animal products, oily food, fried carbohydrates i.e., refined carbohydrates (sweets) & hydrogenated oil
2) Avoid coffee, smoking
3) Eat fiber rich plant food i.e.– fruits, vegetables, legumes
4) Exercise regularly
5) Niacin is useful *
6) Pantethine is also useful*
7) Vit-C is recommended*
8) Garlic
9) Guggul helps clear the obstruction
10) Magnesium, potassium also are useful*
11) Vit-E avoids further damage *

Ayurveda approach

According to ayurveda, this problem occurs due to KAPHA & VATA doshas. If ayurvedic medicines are taken with a diet regime and exercise regime, can cure the problem completely. Therefore, ayurvedic treatment is strongly recommended for this problem.

Contact - Dr. Rahul Saraf at rahsaraf@gmail.com, +919422309088 to discuss your health problem or ayurvedic guidance on the same.