Two Important Steps to Slow the Progression of Heart Disease
The combination of normal systolic blood pressure and very low LDL cholesterol levels, provide the most benefit in slowing the progression of atherosclerotic plaque build up in the wall of the coronary arteries, according to Cleveland Clinic researchers.
Normal systolic blood pressure is defined as 120 mm Hg or less (the top number on the BP reading), and very low LDL cholesterol level is defined as 70 mg/dL or less.
In the illustration to the right, the red blood vessels on the surface of the heart are the coronary arteries. Good blood flow through these arteries is critical to the normal functioning of the heart muscle. However, the coronary arteries are often the source of signficant disease. In fact, coronary heart disease is America’s No. 1 killer.
Throughout life, beginning in childhood, there is a gradual build up of cholesterol and other substances on the inner lining of an artery referred to as atherosclerotic plaques. Over time, these plaques can harden and narrow an artery enough to slow or even block blood flow. Atherosclerotic plaques are often unstable and can rupture into the vessel causing a blood clot to form. This can result in a sudden blockage of an artery and is often the process by which people experience heart attacks or strokes. In some people, the first sign of atherosclerosis might be a heart attack or even sudden death.
Read more:
- Disease of the Coronary Arteries: (coronary heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease)
- High Blood Pressure
- Cholesterol
- Cardiac Anatomy
Source: Chhatriwalla A, et al “Low levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and blood pressure and progression of coronary atherosclerosis” J Am Coll Cardiol 2009; 53: 1110-1115.
Source: “Lowering BP and LDL Cholesterol in Tandem Slows Atherosclerosis” MedPage Today, March 23, 2009
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