Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is very similar to Coronary Artery Disease. It is a thickening of the artery walls due to build up of plaque along the interior walls. The build up of cholesterol causes the arteries to become inflamed and thickened. Arteries that have atherosclerosis have three layers of plaque build up called atheromateous plaque. The inner most layer is called the atheroma, which is an accumulation of soft, flaky material. Underlying the atheroma is a build up of cholesterol followed by a calcification directly along the arterial walls of older accumulations. Atherosclerosis leads to a build of clots that can rupture and break off of the build up which cause stroke or heart attack. If the clots do pass through the heart safely, they will generally shrink but will cause stenosis, or narrowing of the artery, elsewhere in the body. By the clot shrinking, it allows it to become capable of passing through even smaller arteries and capillaries throughout the body which makes a complete blockage even more susceptible. If a blockage occurs, it prevents the blood flow to the muscle or organ in which it is supplying leading to system failure.

Heartburn

Heartburn, as called pyrosis or acid indigestion, is a burning sensation in the chest directly behind the breastbone. The pain can radiate to the neck, throat or jaw. Although heartburn is generally associated with gastric acid, it can also be a key symptom of ischaemic heart disease. Heartburn may also be a symptom of an acute myocardial infarction. Episodic or occasional heartburn is common in a lot of people. It can usually be managed by avoiding certain foods and activities or by taking over the counter medication. There are two different types of treatment for episodic heartburn. Antacids neutralize existing stomach acids and provide short term relief. H2 blockers block the production of stomach acid which provides a longer lasting relief. Patients that have frequent heartburn do not benefit from dietary changes. They often suffer from the pain two or more times a week. Patients who have more frequent episodes need to have further testing done to find the underlying cause. Patients who have ischaemic heart disease are also known to have frequent heartburn. This is due to the relation in cause of both diseases. Poor diet is the most common cause of heartburn and in return is also the most common cause of ischaemic heart disease. Poor diet leads to an increase in cholesterol which deteriorates organ health.