Atherosclerosis, a chronic illness that narrows and hardens arteries due to plaque buildup, affects men and women. Men’s atherosclerosis symptoms are generally gender-specific. Therefore, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of atherosclerosis in males require understanding these gender variations. Now, this article discusses male atherosclerosis, gender-specific symptoms, and proactive cardiovascular health.
Atherosclerosis in Men
Firstly, over time, plaque builds up in the arteries, causing Atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis works similarly in men and women, however numerous variables render males more vulnerable, including:
Hormone Differences
Female hormone estrogen may protect the cardiovascular system. Men have lower estrogen levels than women, which may raise their atherosclerosis risk.
Riskier Lifestyle Choices
Men smoke, drink much, and eat poorly, which raise their risk of atherosclerosis.
High Blood Pressure
Men have greater blood pressure than women, which damages artery walls and causes atherosclerosis.
Higher metabolic syndrome prevalence
Metabolic syndrome, which includes obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal lipid profiles, is more frequent in males and raises atherosclerosis risk.
Symptoms by gender
While both men and women have atherosclerosis symptoms such chest discomfort (angina) and shortness of breath, males may show gender-specific symptoms that may indicate the condition:
Erectile dysfunction
Men with atherosclerosis are more likely to have erectile dysfunction. Therefore, it may indicate genital artery plaque formation and vascular disease.
Backache
Spinal artery atherosclerosis may cause back discomfort in males. Therefore, physical activity typically causes intermittent or chronic discomfort.
Leg Pain
Walking may cause leg discomfort due to atherosclerosis in leg arteries. Men are more likely to have peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Pain in abdomen
Atherosclerosis in abdominal arteries may cause abdominal pain. So, this ache may arise after eating or exercising.
Cognitive Alterations
Men with atherosclerosis may have memory, concentration, and mental clarity issues. These alterations may come from cerebral blood flow reduction.
Secondly, note that gender-specific atherosclerosis symptoms might be modest and not first concerning. However, they may indicate cardiovascular concerns and should not be overlooked.
Male Preventive Measures
A proactive cardiovascular health strategy is needed to prevent atherosclerosis and its effects. Men may minimize their risk in numerous ways:
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a substantial atherosclerosis risk. So, one of the best methods to lower cardiovascular risk is to quit smoking.
Exercise regularly:
- Strength train to maintain fitness and muscular mass.
- To manage hypertension, monitor blood pressure periodically and follow physician instructions.
- Reduce blood pressure by eating less salt and drinking less.
Control Cholesterol Levels
Now again, regularly monitor cholesterol levels and collaborate with healthcare specialists to control high cholesterol with medication.
Oats and legumes are high in soluble fiber, which lowers LDL cholesterol.
Stay Fit:
- Maintain a healthy weight with nutrition and activity.
- Stop following fad diets and start making lasting lifestyle improvements.
- Try to drink alcohol in moderation. Atherosclerosis risk increases with excessive alcohol use.
- Practice stress-reduction strategies like meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness to reduce stress.
- Stay sociable and have help to manage stress.
Regular checkups:
Regular checkups with doctors may evaluate blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Conclusion
In summary, men are at risk for atherosclerosis, which has gender-specific symptoms. These indicators and aggressive cardiovascular risk reduction are essential for avoiding atherosclerosis and associated sequelae. Therefore, by living a heart-healthy lifestyle, controlling risk factors, and seeking medical guidance, men may greatly reduce their risk of atherosclerosis and improve their cardiovascular health as they age. Early identification and treatment are essential for a longer, healthier life.
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