Arterial diseases: causes and symptoms, with Dr. Ahmed Rashid

Arterial diseases are among the most serious health conditions affecting the heart and the body as a whole, due to their essential role in delivering oxygen-rich blood to all organs. If not diagnosed and treated early, arterial diseases can lead to life-threatening complications such as heart attacks and strokes.
Dr. Ahmed Rashid emphasizes that early detection and regular follow-up are the cornerstone of preventing complications related to arterial diseases.

What Are Arterial Diseases?

Arterial diseases refer to a group of conditions that affect the arteries responsible for carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. They usually occur due to:

• Accumulation of fats and cholesterol

• Hardening of arterial walls

• Reduced blood flow

Dr. Ahmed Rashid points out that the most common form is coronary artery disease, which directly affects the heart muscle.

Types of Arterial Diseases

Arterial diseases include several types, such as:

• Coronary artery disease: Affects the arteries supplying the heart

• Peripheral artery disease: Affects the legs and arms

• Cerebral artery disease: May lead to strokes

• Arterial aneurysms: Result from weakness in the arterial wall

Dr. Ahmed Rashid confirms that identifying the specific type of arterial disease helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Causes of Arterial Diseases

The causes of arterial diseases vary and include:

• High cholesterol levels

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Obesity and physical inactivity

• Chronic stress

• Genetic factors

Dr. Ahmed Rashid stresses that an unhealthy lifestyle is the main contributor to the development of arterial diseases in most patients.

Symptoms of Arterial Diseases

Symptoms differ depending on the affected artery and may include:

• Chest pain (angina)

• Shortness of breath

• Leg pain during walking

• Numbness or coldness in the limbs

• Dizziness or loss of balance

• General fatigue

Dr. Ahmed Rashid warns that some cases may be asymptomatic in the early stages, making regular checkups essential.

Diagnosis of Arterial Diseases

Diagnosing arterial diseases relies on several methods, including:

• Clinical examination

• Blood tests

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)

• Echocardiography

• CT scans

• Diagnostic cardiac catheterization

Dr. Ahmed Rashid confirms that accurate diagnosis is the most important step in choosing the proper treatment and preventing disease progression.

Treatment of Arterial Diseases

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

First: Medical Treatment

• Cholesterol-lowering medications

• Blood thinners

• Blood pressure medications

• Diabetes control drugs

Second: Cardiac Catheterization and Interventions

• Widening narrowed arteries

• Stent placement

• Improving blood flow

Third: Surgical Intervention

In advanced cases that do not respond to medication or catheter-based treatments.

Dr. Ahmed Rashid explains that selecting the appropriate treatment method depends on the patient’s overall condition and the degree of arterial blockage.

Prevention of Arterial Diseases

To prevent arterial diseases, it is recommended to:

• Follow a healthy diet

• Exercise regularly

• Quit smoking

• Control blood pressure and blood sugar levels

• Reduce stress

• Maintain regular follow-up with a cardiologist

Dr. Ahmed Rashid emphasizes that prevention is the first line of defense against arterial diseases and their complications.

When Do Arterial Diseases Become Dangerous?

Arterial diseases become particularly dangerous in the following situations:

• Severe arterial blockage

• Occurrence of a heart attack

• Weakening of the heart muscle

• Stroke

In such cases, Dr. Ahmed Rashid stresses the importance of immediate medical intervention to save the patient’s life.

Arterial diseases are among the most common and serious conditions in modern times, yet they can be effectively managed and treated with early diagnosis and proper medical care.
Dr. Ahmed Rashid confirms that regular follow-up, lifestyle modification, and adherence to medical treatment are the keys to maintaining healthy arteries, protecting the heart, and improving quality of life.