Early-onset atherosclerosis is a condition where the arteries start narrowing down and hardening at a young age. It’s a significant risk factor for stroke, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular diseases.

However, studies show that early-onset atherosclerosis also has a significant impact on brain function. In this article, we’ll explore how early-onset atherosclerosis can affect the brain and cognitive abilities.

What is early-onset atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is a condition where the arteries become narrow and hard due to the accumulation of fats, cholesterol, and other substances.

The narrow arteries restrict the blood flow, leading to several health complications, including stroke, heart attacks, and peripheral artery diseases.

Early-onset atherosclerosis refers to the development of atherosclerosis at a young age, typically before the age of 40. It’s thought to be caused by a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and other underlying medical conditions.

How does early-onset atherosclerosis affect the brain?

The brain requires a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function correctly. The blood vessels that supply the brain with oxygen and nutrients are called cerebrovascular arteries.

When these arteries become narrow and hardened due to early-onset atherosclerosis, the brain doesn’t receive enough blood flow, leading to several complications.

One of the most common problems associated with early-onset atherosclerosis is cognitive impairment. Studies show that people with early-onset atherosclerosis have lower cognitive scores than those without the condition. They also have an increased risk of developing dementia later in life.

Early-onset atherosclerosis can also cause several other complications, including:.

Ischemic stroke: When a blockage in the cerebrovascular arteries prevents the blood flow to the brain, it can lead to an ischemic stroke.
Transient ischemic attack (TIA): TIA is a temporary blockage of the cerebrovascular arteries that can cause similar symptoms to an ischemic stroke, but the effects are temporary, typically lasting less than 24 hours.
Cerebral small vessel disease (SVD): SVD is a condition where the small blood vessels in the brain become damaged due to high blood pressure, diabetes, and other underlying medical conditions. Early-onset atherosclerosis can worsen the condition and increase the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia.

What are the risk factors for early-onset atherosclerosis?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing early-onset atherosclerosis, including:.

Family history of cardiovascular diseases
Smoking
High blood pressure
High cholesterol and triglycerides level
Diabetes
Obesity and physical inactivity
Stress and anxiety

How can early-onset atherosclerosis be prevented?

Preventing early-onset atherosclerosis involves making lifestyle changes and managing other underlying medical conditions. Here are some tips to prevent atherosclerosis:.

Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
Eat a healthy and balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sugar
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
Limit alcohol consumption
Manage stress and anxiety through meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques
Manage underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels

Conclusion

Early-onset atherosclerosis is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and can also lead to cognitive impairment, dementia, and other brain-related complications.

Making lifestyle changes and managing underlying medical conditions can help prevent early-onset atherosclerosis and its complications.