Healthy Arteries: The arteries are gradually destroyed by chronic inflammation, which transforms them from healthy blood vessels into areas that are vulnerable to heart attacks. Chronic inflammation, as opposed to acute damage, is a longer-lasting immune response that gradually erodes the artery wall. This persistent inflammation encourages the growth of fatty plaques, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow. Additionally, the long-term inflammatory process weakens the artery walls’ structural integrity, making them more prone to rupture, which might result in blood clots and hinder heart muscle circulation. Preventing cardiovascular events requires an understanding of this process.
Doctors emphasize that a lot of cardiovascular disorders are caused by chronic inflammation, which links lifestyle factors like smoking, poor food, stress, and obesity to artery damage. Inflammatory chemicals released by immune cells promote the development of plaque and disrupt the accumulation of deposits inside the arteries. When plaques burst, underlying substances that promote clots are revealed, which may abruptly obstruct coronary arteries and result in heart attacks. Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar, Director of Cardiology at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital in Deccan Gymkhana, Pune, discusses how persistent inflammation may damage arteries and cause a heart attack in an interview with The Daily Jagran.
Although inflammation is the body’s natural reaction to damage or illness, it may become dangerous if it persists for an extended period of time. The endothelium, the arteries’ fragile inner layer, is irritated by this persistent inflammation, which facilitates the adhesion of cholesterol and other fatty compounds to create atherosclerotic plaques. “The immune system keeps sending signals to repair the area and releases chemicals called cytokines, which can make the plaques bigger and unstable,” says Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar. A blood clot may result from the rupture of an unstable plaque. Even in those with normal cholesterol, a heart attack may result if the clot prevents blood flow to the heart.
Simple blood tests may be used by doctors to evaluate inflammation. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), the most prevalent marker, indicates persistent inflammation and an increased risk of cardiac issues. Inflammation in the blood vessels may also be indicated by other indicators such as fibrinogen and interleukin-6 (IL-6). A comprehensive strategy is required to reduce inflammation, according to Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar: increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids; exercising often; getting enough sleep; and controlling stress. In addition to lowering cholesterol, medications like statins help diminish inflammation. Newer therapies that specifically target inflammation, such as anti-interleukin medications, are being investigated for high-risk individuals.
Inflammation is increasingly being targeted in addition to cholesterol in heart care. Significant research has shown that, even in cases when cholesterol is well managed, lowering inflammation reduces the risk of further heart attacks. Consider inflammation as a slow-burning fire within the arteries. While decreasing cholesterol is still important, putting out this quiet fire with medical intervention, good lifestyle choices, and routine monitoring provides better long-term heart health protection.
