What Are the Causes of Calcium Deposits in Arteries?
Calcium build-up in the arteries may have many sources, though scientists and doctors still cannot point to a definite cause. Preventative measures may not explain calcium build-up but they can illuminate the issue.
Aortic Valve Calcification
Calcium may build up on the valve's leaflets after repeated blood flow over the aortic valve, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have a bicuspid aortic valve, you are at particular risk for calcium deposits. The valve leaflets might stiffen from calcium. Then the aortic value narrows, putting you at risk for heart attack. For some people, the deposits may not pose any threats.
Kidney Stones and Calcium Deposits
Scientists have not discovered the cause of calcium deposits, but they have noticed a link between kidney stones and pathologic calcification. As of 2010, they continue to study the influence of specific proteins and cellular responses on calcium deposits.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis happens when calcium, fat or cholesterol build up along the inner walls of the arteries. According to doctors at MedLine Plus, fatty material thickens and hardens, resulting in calcium deposits. Atherosclerosis poses a threat when the plaque ruptures or the build-up narrows the artery and, combined with a blood clot, prevents blood from flowing.
Risk Factors
You may be at risk for atherosclerosis if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a family history of heart disease. A high-fat diet, smoking, obesity and heavy drinking may increase your risk.
Treatment
Prevent heart attack or stroke by modifying your lifestyle. Though calcium build-up remains unsolved, avoid the complications of atherosclerosis by avoiding fatty foods, eating lots of fruits and vegetables and fish, limiting your alcohol intake, exercising 60 to 90 minutes each day, and keeping your blood pressure below 140/90mmHg.
Tags: calcium deposits, aortic valve, blood pressure, Calcium Deposits, Calcium Deposits Arteries, calcium deposits Atherosclerosis, Causes Calcium
