Atherosclerosis of the brain

Atherosclerosis of the brain is a pathological disease in which healthy vessels are replaced by connective tissue. Let's consider the causes, main symptoms, methods of treatment and prevention of the disease. The disease is chronic and is accompanied by nutritional disorders of the brain tissue due to the growth of lipid plaques. Due to its progression, the brain's performance is impaired, which threatens the development of a stroke.

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Causes cerebral atherosclerosis

Damage to the brain vessels very often occurs with metabolic disorders. Another common factor that provokes the disease is hereditary predisposition. This category includes the structural features of the circulatory system and arteries that are inherited. Regular stressful situations, bad habits, especially smoking and a sedentary lifestyle trigger a neurohumoral mechanism that provokes pathology.

Factors causing the disease:

• High blood cholesterol and cholesterol clearance disorders
• Diabetes mellitus
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Alcoholism
• High blood pressure
• Cytomegalovirus and chlamydial infections
• Old age
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Low high-density alpha lipoprotein levels
• Hereditary predisposition
• Increased blood clotting
• Frequent stress and nervous experiences
• High C-reactive protein

But the main reason for the development of the disease is a violation of fat metabolism; cholesterol penetrates the walls of blood vessels, forming atherosclerotic plaques.

Most often, this problem is faced by middle-aged and elderly patients: women after 60 years old, and men after 50 years old.

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Symptoms cerebral atherosclerosis

The danger is that at the first stages of development the patient does not notice serious symptoms. At the same time, even the narrowing of the lumen of the arteries is accompanied only by dizziness, headaches and tinnitus.

The malaise may appear as a result of hereditary predisposition, psychological problems, emotional overstrain, high blood pressure and a number of other reasons. This pathology is considered a synonym for the word age, since it cannot be cured, like old age. But if you follow medical recommendations, you can significantly slow down the pathological process and alleviate the patient's condition.

Atherosclerotic damage to the brain vessels, as a rule, does not cause pathological symptoms until the organ's blood circulation decreases to a critical level. As soon as this happens, certain symptoms appear, the severity of which depends on which organ is involved in the degenerative process.

Clinicians identify the following signs of cerebral atherosclerosis:

• Dizziness
• Tinnitus
• Frequent headaches
• Confusion
• Increased weakness and fatigue
• Paralysis of one side of the body
• Visual impairment
• Sudden loss of vision
• Severe numbness in any part of the body
• Difficulty coordinating movements
• Slurred speech

The above symptoms indicate pathological narrowing of the cerebral arteries. If more than three of the above symptoms persist for 24 hours or more, this indicates a transient ischemic attack, i.e., a disease that has completely blocked the arteries.

Pain in atherosclerosis of the brain

With atherosclerosis, pains of various localizations appear, but most often these are headaches. The peculiarity of unpleasant sensations is that they are chronic and appear against the background of increased fatigue, emotional lability, irritability, insomnia, and memory loss. The pain is diffuse, that is, it is not determined in a separate area, but causes a feeling of fullness and heaviness in the head. Discomfort increases in the evening, when drinking alcohol and smoking, as well as with physical and nervous tension. Often the disease occurs simultaneously with hypertension.

Treatment involves creating conditions for improving blood supply. First of all, these are long walks in the fresh air, physical and mental exercise. Nutrition, adherence to the regimen and the use of vasodilator medications, which significantly improve cerebral circulation, are of considerable importance. As a preventive measure and to prevent pain, it is recommended to monitor the gastrointestinal tract. Patients should have daily bowel movements, this will help to avoid flatulence. Patients are prescribed a complex of vitamins and minerals to maintain normal functioning of the body.

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Tinnitus in atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

One of the most common signs of atherosclerotic brain damage is tinnitus. In medical practice, a special name is used for this symptom - tinnitus. The noise, which may be accompanied by ringing, is subjective, that is, only the patient hears it. Along with the noise, progressive or paroxysmal hearing loss is noted. It can occur simultaneously with headaches, dizziness, and bouts of nausea.

Noise appears due to disruption of calcium and fat metabolism, causing compaction and thickening of the walls of the cerebral arteries. Blood vessels lose elasticity, blood flow becomes difficult and cerebral nutrition deteriorates. Very often, the noise level depends on blood pressure. If, along with noise, there is a high sensitivity to sound effects, this indicates problems with the nervous system. Monotonous noise may indicate an inflammatory process in the ear. If it is accompanied by nausea, this may be a symptom of Meniere's disease. When the auditory nerves are damaged, coordination of movements is disrupted, the noise is localized in one ear, headaches and dizziness appear.

Diffuse atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels

Diffuse pathology of cerebral vessels is considered a complication of atherosclerotic disease. The disease is called cardiosclerosis, since the heart muscle is affected. The insidiousness of the defect is that there are signs similar to heart failure. The patient complains of a dry cough, shortness of breath, muscle weakness, swelling of the legs, changes in the skin, pain in the right hypochondrium.

The development of pathology has a staged nature:

• The inner lining of the vessels is diffusely infiltrated with cholesterol.
• Cholesterol accumulates locally in the form of stripes or spots, forming plaques with phagocytic activity.
• Plaques slow down blood flow, protrude into the lumen of blood vessels, causing ischemic damage to a particular area of the brain.
• In the future, this can lead to vascular necrosis, thrombosis and the development of cerebral infarction.

As a rule, diffuse damage in elderly patients develops with senile-like dementia, which is similar to the total form in senile dementia. Atherosclerosis of the brain grade 1

At the early stage of the disease, the symptoms are not pronounced, so very often patients confuse them with overexertion and overfatigue. The disorders are asthenic, neurosis-like and psychopathic in nature. And this is not surprising, since stage 1 causes problems with concentration, decreased memory performance, frequent headaches. After a good rest, all symptoms go away, and performance is restored.

Symptoms:

• Neurosis-like – low mood, inhibition or unmotivated euphoria.
• Asthenic-like – increased weakness and rapid fatigue, difficulty concentrating, headaches and bouts of nausea. It becomes difficult to remember new information, and difficulties with its reproduction appear. Memory deteriorates, patients find it difficult to remember numbers and names.
• Psychopathic-like - hysterical reactions, fixation, irascibility, anger, irritability. Along with this, grumpiness and sloppiness appear.

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Atherosclerosis of the brain grade 2

In the second stage of the disease, neurological and somatic disorders are added to the symptoms of the first. The patient may become depressed or suffer from prolonged apathy.

Symptoms:

• Emotional lability
• Swelling and numbness of the legs
• Tingling in the face
• Closedness
• Exaggeration of worries and concerns
• Speech impairment
• Unsteadiness of gait
• Tinnitus
• Trembling fingers

This stage is characterized by signs associated with neurology. Patients are anxious, unsure of their own strength. Delusional inclusions and suspicion appear, unnatural sensations in the body are possible, i.e. a burning sensation in the back of the head or frequent tingling of the legs.

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Atherosclerosis of the brain grade 3

The last, or third, stage of the disease is the stage of dementia. Patients cannot take care of themselves independently, do not remember recent events, and partially remember the past. Personality disorders and orientation in reality are possible.

Irreversible disruptions of brain function cause groundless attacks of fear, laughter, crying, epileptic seizures. In addition, paralysis and strokes are possible at this stage.

Patients require 24-hour monitoring, as they are disoriented in place and time. Acute cerebrovascular accident, i.e. stroke, is possible. Transient ischemic attacks manifest as speech and visual disorders, sensitivity disorders of individual parts of the body.

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Forms

The International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, classifies atherosclerosis as Class IX “Diseases of the circulatory system”:

I70-I79 Diseases of arteries, arterioles and capillaries:

• I70 Atherosclerosis
  • I70.0 Atherosclerosis of the aorta
  • I70.1 Atherosclerosis of renal artery
  • I70.2 Atherosclerosis of arteries of extremities
  • I70.8 Atherosclerosis of other arteries
  • I70.9 Generalized and unspecified atherosclerosis
• I71 Aneurysm and dissection of aorta
• I72 Other forms of aneurysm
• I73 Other peripheral vascular diseases
• I74 Embolism and thrombosis of arteries
• I77 Other disorders of arteries and arterioles
• I78 Diseases of capillaries
• I79* Disorders of arteries, arterioles and capillaries in diseases classified elsewhere

Additional coding is used to identify the primary disease.

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Complications and consequences

The consequences of atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels have a pathological effect on the entire body. Circulatory disorders begin in the areas that feed the affected vessels. Ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke is possible. Due to the blockage of cerebral arteries by plaques and poor blood flow, encephalopathy or intracerebral hemorrhage develops.

The disorder of coordination of movement, sensitivity and decreased intelligence are irreversible. If hypertension develops along with atherosclerotic pathology, there is a high risk of transient ischemic attacks. If the disease is accompanied by diabetes, the risk of stroke increases. Such patients complain of high blood pressure, suffer from obesity and high cholesterol in the blood. But the most terrible consequence of the disease is death.

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Diagnostics cerebral atherosclerosis

The symptoms of the disease are poorly expressed in the early stages, which significantly complicates the diagnostic process. But it is early recognition and treatment that give excellent results. Therefore, it is necessary to periodically carry out special diagnostic procedures to identify signs of atherosclerosis.

During a medical examination, the doctor examines the patient, paying attention to symptoms of malaise in all organs and systems. Blood pressure and heart rate are measured. The patient's pulse is measured in the wrist, neck, legs and groin area. After this, the patient is given a referral for blood tests, an electrocardiogram and an ECG examination.

Diagnostic methods:

• Blood biochemistry test – determines the level of cholesterol, triglycerides and reduction of high-density lipoproteins.
• Instrumental research methods make it possible to assess the degree of vascular narrowing, the condition of the arteries and the size of atherosclerotic plaques.
  • Duplex scanning
  • Ultrasound examination of extracranial vessels
  • Magnetic resonance imaging
  • Transcranial Doppler ultrasound

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Treatment cerebral atherosclerosis

Treatment of atherosclerotic disorder depends on the patient's age, stage and symptoms. Therapy is aimed at reducing or completely eliminating risk factors, improving cerebral circulation, normalizing fat metabolism and restoring brain function.

Diet plays a primary role in the recovery process. The diet should not include foods with high cholesterol. Basic nutritional recommendations:

• Minimize or avoid consuming foods with high cholesterol levels – eggs, fatty meats, poultry and fish, chocolate, high-fat dairy products.
• Vegetables, fresh herbs, fruits, cereals, seaweed, drinks made from hawthorn berries, strawberry leaves and other medicinal plants are useful.

It is necessary to give up alcohol and smoking, maintain physical activity and control blood pressure. Vasodilators, vitamin therapy and antioxidants are used as drug treatment.

Particular attention is paid to disease prevention, which includes increased physical activity, frequent walks in the fresh air, minimum stress and proper nutrition. Self-medication is dangerous, as it can cause serious complications, even death.

Drug treatment of cerebral atherosclerosis

Drug therapy for vascular disease of the head consists of several stages and directly depends on the stage of the disease, its symptoms and the characteristics of the patient's body. Thus, to eliminate disorders of lipid metabolism in the brain vessels, the following means are used:

• Medicines that prevent the absorption of cholesterol into the blood, which enters the patient's body with food: Cholestyramine, Colestipol.
• Medicines to reduce atherogenic lipoproteins and cholesterol levels in the blood: Atorvastatin, Rosuvastatin, Simvastatin.
• Drugs for removing lipoproteins, i.e. fibrates: Lipanor, Tricor.

To restore brain functions and improve its blood circulation, vasodilators and hormonal agents, microelements, antioxidants, biostimulants and vitamins are used. If there is a high risk of occlusion of the lumen of arteries important for life, then surgical intervention is indicated, that is, removal of the atherosclerotic plaque.

Medicines for cerebral atherosclerosis

Medicines for the treatment of atherosclerosis do not give immediate results; patients often have to take medications throughout their entire lives. That is, the therapy is long-term and requires the use of properly selected drugs.

Let's look at the main groups of drugs:

• Statins (reductase inhibitors)

They are blockers of the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of cholesterol in liver cells. The drug reduces the penetration of cholesterol into the walls of blood vessels and reduces the lipid cores of atherosclerotic plaques, reducing the risk of their rupture and thrombus formation. They are indicated for use regardless of the lipid level, for patients with unstable angina, after myocardial infarction, stroke and as a preventive measure for ischemic heart disease.

Simvastatin, Atorvastatin, Mefacor, Rosuvostatin, Lovastatin, Fluvastatin, Pravastatin.

• Fibrates

These are derivatives of fibric acid, promote fat utilization and activate lipoprotein lipase. This group of drugs increases lipid oxidation, improves arterial wall nutrition and glucose metabolism, and has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Bezafibrate, Atromidine, Fenofibrate, Ciprofibrate, Gemfibrozil

• Hypolipid drugs

Reduces blood cholesterol levels but does not affect triglyceride levels. Significantly increases blood protein levels to remove cholesterol.

Proburcol, Ezetemibe, Omacor, Vitrum cardio omega 3

• Nicotinic acid

Reduces triglyceride and cholesterol levels, increases high-density lipoprotein levels.

Enduracin and nicotinic acid derivatives

• Anion exchange resins

These are bile acid sequestrants, which are used in cases of statin intolerance. The medications bind and remove bile acids, normalizing stool.

Actovegin for atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels

Actovegin is a medicine that improves metabolism in tissues and stimulates their regeneration. It is available in the form of tablets, solution, cream, ointment and gel. The active substance is a deproteinized hemoderivative of calf blood (obtained using ultrafiltration and dialysis).

• Increases oxygen consumption and increases glucose utilization at the cellular level, increases ATP levels, restores energy balance in tissues and normalizes cellular metabolism. Significantly reduces symptoms of polyneuropathy, sensitivity disorders and improves mental well-being.
• It is used to treat peripheral vascular disorders and their complications, diabetic polyneuropathy. It is suitable for complex therapy of vascular and metabolic disorders in the brain. The dosage is individual for each patient, as is the duration of therapy.
• Do not use in case of individual intolerance to the active substance and auxiliary components. Use with caution during pregnancy and lactation, in case of heart failure, anuria, pulmonary edema.
• If the drug has caused allergic reactions, it must be stopped. Treatment of side effects is symptomatic, that is, standard terraria with antihistamines.

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Tanakan for atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels

Tanakan is a herbal preparation made from dry standardized extract of ginkgo biloba heterosides and ginkgolides-bilobalides. Normalizes metabolism in cells, improves blood microcirculation and cerebral circulation. Slows down platelet activation and promotes erythrocyte aggregation. Has a dose-dependent effect on the vascular system, improves venous tone, which promotes normal filling of blood vessels.

• The drug has an antithrombotic effect, prevents lipid peroxidation of cell membranes and the appearance of free radicals. It has an antihypoxic effect, improving metabolism in tissues and organs, normalizes mediator processes in the central nervous system.
• It is used to treat cognitive and neurosensory deficits of various genesis. It is effective in cases of vascular visual impairment, ringing and noise in the ears, frequent headaches, dizziness, and Raynaud's syndrome.
• The tablets are taken orally during meals. The course of treatment is three months, during which it is necessary to take 1 tablet 3 times a day.
• It is prohibited to use during pregnancy and lactation and in case of individual intolerance to the active substances. In case of overdose or long-term therapy, side effects are possible that cause dyspeptic phenomena, vomiting, nausea. In addition, headaches and dizziness, allergic skin reactions are possible.

Traditional treatment of atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

Traditional treatment of atherosclerotic brain damage is a complex of methods that have been developed over many centuries. If the diagnosis is confirmed and the disease is at an early stage, then in addition to conservative treatment, non-traditional methods can be used.

Herbal and natural components provide maximum positive effect with minimal side effects and contraindications. In addition, traditional medicine is a gentle treatment that requires a systematic approach, but is long-term.

Let's look at the most popular methods that have proven their effectiveness:

• Take 1 spoon of unrefined corn oil daily. This oil treatment has a beneficial effect on the condition of blood vessels and the functioning of the body.
• Mix vegetable oil (corn or olive), honey and freshly squeezed lemon juice 1:1:1. It is recommended to take the remedy every morning before meals.
• The best remedy for breaking down cholesterol is radish juice with vegetable oil 1:1. Take 1 spoon of the mixture before each meal.
• Take fresh potatoes and grate them, carefully squeezing out the juice. The juice should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach, you can add fresh carrot and celery juice to it. The effectiveness of the treatment will be noticeable after 2-3 months.
• Drinking 100 ml of red wine daily restores blood circulation in the brain. The reason is that wine contains polyphenols, which block the protein that constricts blood vessels.
• You can make a medicinal infusion from hawthorn. Fresh berries need to be crushed and squeezed to obtain juice. The juice is taken 1 spoon before meals. If there are dried berries, then they need to be steamed with boiling water and taken a glass before bed and before meals.
• To prepare an alcohol tincture of garlic, take 50 g of crushed garlic and 250 ml of vodka. The ingredients must be mixed and left to brew for 3-4 days. The remedy is taken 10 drops three times a day, diluted with a small amount of water.
• Grind a couple of heads of garlic and lemon until mushy. The remedy should be infused for 3-4 days in a glass of water. Take 40 ml every morning.

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Leeches for atherosclerosis of the brain

Hirudotherapy is used in the treatment of many vascular diseases, including serious ones such as atherosclerotic disorder. Most often, people over 40 suffer from this disease. In its early stages, fat-protein complexes are deposited in the inner lining of the arteries, which gradually grow, transforming into plaques. The vascular tissues that are under the plaques are destroyed, after which the plaque penetrates the muscle layer, narrowing the lumen of the vessels and disrupting blood circulation.

The number of hirudotherapy sessions is determined by the doctor, based on the patient's test results. Such treatment is contraindicated for people with hemophilia, oncology, hypotension or anemia, as well as for pregnant women. Leeches are placed behind the ears, they help eliminate severe headaches and improve the patient's condition. The positive effect of the treatment lies in a special enzyme in the leech saliva, which contains a complex of active substances. Thanks to this, cholesterol levels are reduced, damaged capillaries are restored, and blood flow is accelerated.

The duration of the course and the number of leeches depend on the type of atherosclerosis, its stage and the individual characteristics of the patient's body. As a rule, 7-10 sessions are carried out, every 3-4 days, using 4-10 leeches. After a month's break, the course is repeated to achieve a lasting result. As a result of such procedures, blood flow is normalized, vessel walls are strengthened, and the body's oxygen supply is restored.

Treatment of atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels with herbs

Medicinal herbs are the basis of traditional medicine, they help in the treatment of many diseases, including various types of atherosclerotic disease. Today, herbs are used as an additional method to traditional therapy. The most popular and effective are tinctures and decoctions made from the following plants: calamus root, succession, chamomile, hawthorn, immortelle, dill, mistletoe, mint, lemon balm, marsh cudweed, flax seeds, oregano, birch leaves, motherwort, red clover.

Medicine prescriptions:

• Pour boiling water over a handful of lemon balm leaves, let it brew and strain. Take 3-4 spoons 4-5 times a day.
• Pour 250 ml of boiling water over a spoon of dill seeds and let it brew. Take 2 spoons 3-4 times a day. Effectively eliminates headaches and dizziness.
• Pour ½ cup of boiling water over 2 spoons of blue cornelian root, boil in a water bath, strain and let steep. Take 1 spoon of the remedy before each meal.
• Pour 500 ml of boiling water over a handful of dry plantain leaves and let it brew for 20-30 minutes. Take ½ cup 3-4 times a day.
• Pour rose hips into a glass jar or bottle to 2/3 of its volume and fill with vodka. The tincture should be infused in a dark place for 14 days. Strain the remedy and take 20 drops with a spoon of sugar.
• Pour 250 ml of boiling water over a spoon of wild strawberry leaves, keep on low heat for 5-10 minutes and let it brew for 1-2 hours. Strain the decoction and take 1 spoon 3-4 times a day. Helps remove salts and excess cholesterol from the body.
• Pour 500 ml of boiling water over a spoonful of buckwheat flowers and let it brew for 1-2 hours. Take the drink ½ cup 3-4 times a day.
• Pour 200 g of rowan bark with 500 ml of water and boil on low heat for 2 hours. Take 1 spoon of the medicine 3-4 times a day 30 minutes before meals.
• Pour vodka over a glass of pine needles. The remedy should be infused for 10 days in a dark, cool place in a closed container. Strain the infusion and take 10 drops in a spoon of warm water 3-4 times a day before meals.
• Grind the plantain leaves and squeeze the juice out of them. Mix the juice with honey 1:1 and simmer for 10-30 minutes. Take 2 spoons a day, can be stored in the refrigerator.

Homeopathy for atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

Homeopathy is a special method of treatment that is used in the therapy of many diseases of the body. To prevent the development of atherosclerosis, agents with catalysts are used that stimulate such groups of enzymes: sulfadenyl transferase, choline acetyl transferase, catalase, allyl oxidase. Therefore, medications that stimulate the synthesis of these enzymes are used in treatment.

To lower blood pressure:

• Plumbum
• Metallicum
• Tobacco
• Anti-sclerotic:
• Cholesterol
• Strontium carbonicum
• Barite carbonica
• Sekale
• Antihomotoxic:
• Ubiquinone compositum
• Coenzyme compositum
• Glyoxal compositum

To correctly select a homeopathic remedy, the patient undergoes computer diagnostics of the body. During the therapy, it is recommended to be observed by a cardiologist.

Diet for atherosclerosis of the brain

Dietary nutrition for atherosclerosis is an effective way to improve well-being and restore normal functioning of the body. Long-term adherence to diet No. 10, which is prescribed for diseases of the cardiovascular system, allows you to significantly slow down pathological processes. This disease is characterized by an excess of lipids that come with food. The diet involves reducing daily caloric intake and regular fasting days.

It is prohibited to use:

• Animal fats, fatty meats, fish, sausages, pate
• Fatty soups and broths
• High-fat dairy products
• Pastries and sweets
• Alcohol

Allowed products:

• Lean meats and fish
• Low-fat dairy products
• Vegetables, fruits, greens
• Whole grain bread
• Cereals and pasta
• Spices and low-fat seasonings
• Juices without sugar, weak tea and coffee

If the disease has arisen against the background of obesity, the daily diet should not exceed 1500 kcal. The energy value of food is reduced by refusing carbohydrates and animal fats. In addition, it is necessary to completely exclude cholesterol-rich foods from the diet: liver, egg yolks, kidneys, caviar.

The main goal of the diet is to improve blood circulation and reduce cholesterol. A mandatory condition of treatment is fluid intake. You need to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. The main principle of cooking is boiling, stewing or baking, and it is not recommended to add salt to food during cooking. You need to eat often and in small portions, that is, stick to a fractional regimen, so that there are 5-6 meals per day.

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Sample menu

The sample menu allows you to navigate in the selection of products and the preparation of dishes for the treatment of atherosclerosis of the head. It is better to cook food in vegetable oil, that is, without adding fat. It is also recommended to limit the use of salt in the cooking process, it is better to add salt to ready-made dishes. The menu should contain many vitamins and minerals, that is, easily digestible food.

Sample menu for the day:

Breakfast:

• Oatmeal
• Fresh vegetable salad with vegetable oil
• A glass of tea

Snack:

• Low-fat cottage cheese
• Any fruit

Dinner:

• Vegetable soup
• Vegetable stew
• Baked or boiled chicken breast
• Fresh juice without sugar

Snack:

• A glass of yogurt
• Any fruit

Dinner:

• Baked fish
• Mashed potatoes
• Carrot salad with garlic and vegetable oil

Second dinner:

• A glass of kefir
• Steamed omelette

You can eat 250 g of black and 100 g of white bread per day or replace it with whole grain bread.

Fasting treatment

Therapeutic fasting is a powerful tool in the fight against many diseases, including atherosclerotic disorder. It helps to normalize high blood pressure and cleanse the body of cholesterol plaques. Fasting requires special preparation and is carried out only with medical permission. The day before the fasting day, it is recommended to skip dinner and eat light food during the day, but drink plenty of water.

As a rule, short fasts are used according to the scheme: 1 time per week, 1 time per 10 days and once per quarter. If headaches, dizziness, general weakness and other unpleasant symptoms appear during such therapy, then it is recommended to have 1-2 fasting days per week. In addition, it is necessary to adhere to a dairy-vegetable diet, observe separate meals, increase physical activity in order to prevent blood stagnation.

Coffee for atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

Coffee increases the level of cholesterol in the blood, so people with a predisposition to atherosclerosis should minimize the consumption of this drink. The thing is that it contains an organic substance - cafestol. Its amount in the finished drink depends on the method of preparation. Drinks prepared by boiling coffee powder and espresso contain the most cafestol. It is this substance that increases cholesterol levels and negatively affects health.

The cafestol level does not depend on the amount of caffeine, as it is contained in coffee oils and is released during brewing. In order to reduce its content, the finished coffee should be passed through a paper filter. This is why modern coffee machines are equipped with paper filters.

A large amount of the aromatic drink has a negative effect on the cardiovascular system, causing increased heart rate and chest pain. But a cup of coffee a day perfectly eliminates fatigue, invigorates and increases efficiency. The way it is consumed is also important. So, it is not recommended to drink coffee with cream or sweets. It is better to prepare it in Turkish, that is, to insist on hot sand, which will make its taste and aroma amazing, and the negative impact on the body will be minimal.

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Vitamins for atherosclerosis of the brain

All patients, regardless of the form and stage of atherosclerotic damage to the head, are prescribed vitamins to restore the body. Such useful substances help reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood.

Patients are recommended to take vitamins of group B, PP, A, E, C, as they speed up metabolism and remove waste and toxins from the body. The most effective in the fight against atherosclerosis are unsaturated fatty acids Ω3 and Ω6, they dissolve cholesterol plaques on the walls of blood vessels. Various antioxidants strengthen the vascular walls, and sorbents absorb cholesterol.

Useful vitamins:

• C – slows down and softens the development of the disease, and its removal from the body reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood. To achieve a therapeutic effect, the vitamin is taken in large doses and for a long period of time. Increases lipid metabolism, stimulates liver function and the release of cholesterol into intestinal bile. Helps to get rid of excess harmful substances.
• P – when interacting with vitamin C, increases the strength of the vessel walls. Useful for significant blood loss and hypertension.
• B1 – participates in amino acid metabolism, regulates oxidation of carbohydrate metabolism products. Affects the cardiovascular, endocrine, central nervous system and digestive systems. Indispensable for diabetes.
• B2 – takes part in regulating metabolism. Improves skin color and visual acuity, has a beneficial effect on the nervous system and mucous membranes.
• B6 – is necessary for the transformation of amino acids, participates in the regulation of fat metabolism in the liver, the formation of hemoglobin and cholesterol metabolism. The more protein food enters the body, the more of this substance is required.
• B12 – is responsible for normal hematopoiesis, helps to absorb folic acid and amino acids. Weakens the development of the disease, eliminates pernicious anemia, is effective in the treatment of lesions of the hematopoietic organs and blood.
• PP is an essential element of important enzymes in the body. It participates in cellular respiration, oxidation of proteins and carbohydrates, and energy release. It regulates nervous activity, hematopoiesis, and cholesterol metabolism, and dilates small vessels.
• E – reduces blood clotting, cleanses veins and arteries from blood clots, strengthens capillaries, dilates veins. Promotes the absorption of other vitamins, protects against oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, stimulates muscle activity.
• K – participates in blood clotting, is formed by intestinal microflora.
• Folic acid – participates in the process of hematopoiesis, protein metabolism, formation of choline and nucleic acids.
• Choline – has lipotropic properties, removes fat from the liver, and is involved in the process of fat metabolism.
• Iodine – affects the function of the thyroid gland and participates in the formation of its hormones. Prevents fat deposition and the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
• Magnesium – has a vasodilatory and antispasmodic effect, removes cholesterol from the intestines. Normalizes the excitability of the nervous system, activates enzymes of energy and carbohydrate metabolism, participates in bone formation.

Vitamin complexes and various biologically active supplements have beneficial properties:

• Vitamins K, C, P – increase blood clotting and reduce the fragility of blood vessels, are included in the antihemorrhagic dietary supplement.
• B6, B15, lipoic acid, chromium picolinate – normalize carbohydrate metabolism, reduce lactic acid levels, are essential for diabetes.
• B6, B15, lipoic acid, pantothenic acid – normalize fat metabolism, reduce cholesterol levels, accelerate the breakdown of fats in the body.
• B2, PP, B6, B12, B15, choline, lipoic acid, carnitine - this is a detoxifying complex. Increases the liver's ability to destroy toxins, cholesterol and other foreign substances.

The above combinations of minerals and vitamins will prevent vascular diseases and heart disease. They speed up the recovery process in atherosclerotic disease.

Products for atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

In case of cerebral vascular disease, special diets are used, which imply a certain set of products. Preference should be given to fresh vegetables, fruits, greens, berries. Whole grain products are rich in fiber, so they should also be in the diet. This applies to vegetable oils, fish, lean meats and dairy products. At the same time, it is necessary to limit the consumption of animal products and saturated fats. Trans fats, which are found in fast food and store-bought baked goods, are harmful to the brain and blood vessels.

• Oils and fats – maintain blood lipid levels, strengthen blood vessels in the brain and heart. It is recommended to consume olive and flaxseed oils, nuts, fish, seafood and avocado.
• Sugar, fiber, carbohydrates – when following a diet for the treatment of atherosclerotic disorder, the daily diet should consist of 50% carbohydrates. Preference should be given to complex carbohydrates and fiber, which are found in whole grains and vegetables.
• Protein – dairy, meat and some plant products are rich in this element. Protein should make up 10% of daily calories. It is best to get it from fish, meat, soy, legumes and dairy products. But do not forget that such products as red meat, egg yolk, shellfish and milk fats contain cholesterol.
• Minerals – during treatment, the diet should include foods rich in potassium. This microelement is found in bananas, nuts, oranges, prunes, pears, tomatoes, peas. Do not forget about calcium, which maintains the tone of smooth muscles, that is, the inside of blood vessels. Its regular use normalizes blood pressure.
• Antioxidants and vitamins – chemicals such as vitamins C and E are excellent antioxidants. They absorb oxidation products, i.e. free radicals, and protect the circulatory system.

In addition to following the above recommendations, it is necessary to reduce daily consumption of salt, saturated fats and limit the amount of carbohydrates in the diet. The main principles of recovery should be healthy eating and physical activity.

Exercises for atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

Physical activity and special exercises are the main stage of the recovery process and relief of atherosclerosis symptoms. Since the disease is accompanied by headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, sleep problems. In addition, there is a decrease in performance and memory, increased weakness.

Exercises are performed daily, gradually increasing the duration of classes to 60 minutes. This improves blood supply to the brain. Walks in the fresh air in combination with physical exercise give excellent results. But physical education is contraindicated in acute circulatory disorders, significant decrease in intelligence and vascular crises.

Let's look at an approximate set of therapeutic exercises:

• Walk in place at a moderate pace for 3-5 minutes, inhaling on the 2nd-3rd step and exhaling on the 3rd-4th step.
• Stretch your back, neck and arms. Do 5-10 forward-backward, sideways bends, and circular head rotations.
• Sit on a chair, clasp your hands together, and slowly raise and lower them. Do 10 times in three sets.
• Sitting on a chair, spread your legs shoulder-width apart, stretch your legs forward and make rotational movements of the ankle. 10-15 times in different directions 2-3 approaches.
• Stand facing the back of the chair and grab it with your hands. Alternately move your legs back, bending your lower back as much as possible. 10-12 times in 2-3 approaches is enough.
• Raise your right leg, bent at the knee, and touch it with your left elbow, return to the starting position and perform the exercise on your left leg and right elbow. Perform at a medium pace, 10-15 repetitions in 3 sets.
• Take the starting position – legs together, arms to the sides. Make wide circular movements with your arms back and forth. Hands on your waist, slowly tilt your body to the sides, forward and backward. Perform 10-20 repetitions in each direction in 2-3 sets.
• Lie down on the floor, stretch your arms and legs, trying to arch your back. Do 5-6 repetitions.

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Gymnastics for atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

Therapeutic gymnastics for cerebrovascular disorders is indicated for patients of all ages, regardless of the stage of the disorder. Its main goal is a general strengthening and health-improving effect, improving blood circulation, increasing physical performance, stimulating the function of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. There are several forms of therapeutic gymnastics - morning hygienic, therapeutic and walks.

A special rehabilitation plan has been developed, consisting of 4 sections, each of which describes the main types of exercises.

• Gymnastics begins with a warm-up. Walking, walking with acceleration, jogging, breathing exercises, a set for warming up the arms, neck and shoulder girdle are suitable for this. Duration of the section: 5-7 minutes.
• At the second stage, all exercises are done in a standing position. The complex is aimed at working out the muscles of the arms, shoulder girdle and torso. Exercises for the lower extremities should be alternated with dynamic breathing and exercises to relax the muscular system. You can use dumbbells or hand weights. Duration: 10-15 minutes.
• The exercises are performed in a lying position. The abdominal and lower limb muscles are worked out, combined with breathing exercises and head turns. A resistance complex for the head and neck is also suitable. Everything is performed at a slow pace. Duration: 10-15 minutes.
• At the final stage, exercises with elements of static efforts and dynamic breathing are done. These can be exercises for flexibility and balance. Duration: 10 minutes.

The whole complex should take 40-50 minutes. Gymnastics should be performed daily, gradually increasing the number of approaches. It is recommended to use various gymnastic equipment: dumbbells, balls, sticks or general-purpose exercise machines.

Massage for atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

Massage for atherosclerotic lesions of the head helps eliminate painful symptoms. During the procedure, the paravertebral zones of the cervical spine are affected, the trapezius muscles are worked out, as well as the muscles of the neck and collar zone. The patient is in a sitting position, with the head resting on a bolster or hands.

Massage can rightfully be considered a light form of therapeutic gymnastics. It is used as an auxiliary physiotherapeutic method for patients of all ages. Its main goal is a passive load on the muscular system and improved blood circulation.

The structure of the procedure by time:

• 25% – volumetric and flat stroking, improving blood flow.
• 20% – rubbing to expand blood vessels in a specific area.
• 35% – horizontal and vertical kneading, creating the effect of physical exercise.
• 20% – continuous vibration.

The structure and method may vary depending on the patient's condition. Thus, during hospital treatment, the massage is done in a horizontal position, starting with the lower extremities. With a gentle massage, the scalp and shoulder girdle are affected. The course of treatment is 10 days, the duration of the procedure is 5-30 minutes.

Yoga for atherosclerosis of the cerebral vessels

Yoga is a complex of physical and psychological practices used to treat and prevent many diseases, including atherosclerosis. It has a positive effect on muscles and improves spiritual state. It helps to reduce blood pressure and strengthens the cardiovascular system.

Regular physical exercise makes the heart work in aerobic mode, which prevents ischemic heart disease, heart attack and depression. Training increases endurance and makes the body consume oxygen more actively, which has a beneficial effect on blood circulation and the condition of blood vessels. It is better to do exercises under the supervision of a professional instructor, who will create a set of exercises aimed at combating the disease and improving the health of the entire body.

Prevention

Prevention of vascular disease of the head is a set of methods for preventing the disease, alleviating or eliminating its symptoms (depending on the stage). Primary prevention gives the best results, since the vessels are still elastic.

Basic rules for preventing atherosclerosis:

• Smoking cessation (reducing the number of cigarettes smoked per day)
• Giving up alcohol
• Regular physical activity
• Healthy eating
• Stress prevention
• Normalization of body weight

In the first place are healthier nutrition, physical exercise and weight control. Since these measures normalize and restore blood circulation, prevent blood stagnation and accumulation of heavy and harmful fats in it.

There is so-called secondary prevention, which is aimed at slowing down atherosclerotic processes. It includes:

• Lowering blood pressure
• Regular use of antiplatelet agents
• Taking statins to normalize blood lipid levels

At the same time, physical activity is contraindicated for patients with severe ischemic disease. But in general, physical activity and diet, even at advanced stages, have a positive effect on blood circulation and tone, and minimize painful symptoms.

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Forecast

The prognosis of atherosclerotic disorder depends entirely on the stage at which the disease was diagnosed, how it progresses, and the individual characteristics of the patient's body. The disease is chronic, so it can cause serious complications, which worsens its prognosis. Failure to comply with medical recommendations and the lack of regular therapy are also unfavorable.

The prognosis depends on the degree of systemic impact of the disease on the body. Most patients with a deficiency of blood supply to the head are at risk of myocardial infarction and sudden death. In some cases, a special cardiovascular risk assessment scale is used to make a prognostic assessment. But the earlier the disease is detected and treatment measures are taken, the better the prognosis for the patient.

How long do people live with cerebral atherosclerosis?

Many patients diagnosed with atherosclerosis of the vessels of the head are interested in the question of how long they live with this disease. The statistics of the disease are disappointing: at the age of 35-40, about 75% of men and 35% of women suffer from the disease. And after 55-60 years, these figures approach 100%. But the mortality rate is at the level of 55-58%. The main cause of death is a heart attack, stroke or ischemic disease.

When the head is affected, the patient is the most vulnerable. Since the disease causes pathological symptoms that progress rapidly, taking away the patient's memory and personality. Frequent attacks of dizziness, oxygen starvation and clogged vessels are a pathological combination that threatens death.

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Disability

Disability is closely related to circulatory disorders in the brain vessels. Atherosclerosis can cause serious complications that are caused by the presence of combined risk factors, predisposition and individual characteristics of the body.

Disability is determined by the following pathologies:

• Transient cerebrovascular accidents, i.e. microstrokes
• Acute coronary blood supply disorders – myocardial infarctions
• Persistent cerebrovascular accidents – strokes
• Obliterating atherosclerosis
• Aortic stenosis and aneurysm

Each of the diseases is difficult to treat and can therefore lead to disability.

In strokes, disability occurs due to impaired movement in the limbs, paresis and paralysis, and decreased mental abilities. But myocardial infarction does not carry such dangerous complications.

• With a massive infarction, it becomes impossible to perform normal physical activity, and in particularly severe cases, pain and discomfort appear even at rest.
• Progressive heart failure results in the patient being unable to care for themselves and requiring outside assistance.

Atherosclerosis of the brain significantly limits the capabilities of patients. Since patients cannot perform work that requires concentration or quick reaction. Very often, the disease leads to extrapyramidal tremors of the upper limbs and head, which limits the ability to perform fine and precise work. Based on such disorders, the medical and social examination assigns patients the III disability group.

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