What changes in veins occur to create varicose veins

Atherosclerosis is a complex disease process that involves the gradual buildup of plaques (fatty deposits) in the walls of arteries, leading to narrowing and reduced blood flow. The exact cause of atherosclerosis is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors

One of the key contributing factors to atherosclerosis is damage to the endothelial cells that line the walls of arteries. This damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including high blood pressure, smoking, high levels of lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and other inflammatory factors. When the endothelial cells are damaged, they release chemicals that attract white blood cells to the area. These white blood cells then migrate into the arterial wall, where they begin to accumulate and form fatty deposits called plaques.

Over time, these plaques can grow and calcify, leading to further narrowing of the artery and reducing blood flow to the affected tissue. In addition, plaques can rupture and form blood clots, which can completely block blood flow to the affected area and cause a heart attack or stroke.

While high serum cholesterol levels are a risk factor for atherosclerosis, they are not the sole cause. Similarly, an increase in antithrombotic substances (substances that prevent blood clots) and congenital heart disease are not primary causes of atherosclerosis, although they may contribute to the disease process in some cases.

When the left ventricle is unable to pump blood effectively, blood backs up into the lungs, leading to pulmonary congestion and edema. This can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Decreased venous pressure and hyperoxygenation are not typically associated with left ventricular failure. Bradycardia may occur in some cases, but it is not a defining feature of left ventricular failure.