This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified health professional before engaging in any physical activity or making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle.
Carl Weathers died of complications from heart disease. According to his death certificate, the 76-year-old “Rocky” actor died suddenly of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease on February 1 at his home in Venice, California.
A death certificate released on February 9 states that the “The Mandalorian” and “Predator” star had been living with heart disease for several years.
Earlier this month, Weathers’ family released a short statement saying he passed away “peacefully in his sleep.”
“Karl was an extraordinary human being who lived an extraordinary life,” the statement said. “Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he left an indelible mark and has been recognized around the world and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father and grandfather. , partner and friend.”
Starr leaves behind sons Jason and Matthew Weathers.
What is atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease?
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a condition caused by the buildup of plaque on the walls of arteries. Composed of fatty substances, cholesterol, calcium, cellular waste, and fibrin (a protein that helps blood clot), plaque restricts arterial blood flow and makes artery walls thick and hard.
Atherosclerosis develops slowly over time and can affect artery walls in the heart, but it can also affect arteries in other organs, such as the brain and kidneys, and in other parts of the body, such as the legs. It may also affect blood flow to the area.
According to the American Heart Association, ASCVD includes coronary heart disease (plaque buildup in the heart), peripheral artery disease (restricted blood flow to the extremities), and aortic atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the aorta). This includes symptoms such as cerebrovascular disease. disease (affecting blood flow to the brain); these ASCVD-related conditions are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and the second leading cause of death in Canada.
What symptoms do you have? Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease?
According to the Mayo Clinic, ASCVD does not cause symptoms until the artery becomes narrowed or blocked. In some cases, a blood clot blocking an artery can rupture, causing a heart attack or stroke. Symptoms of ASCVD-related conditions vary depending on the location of the affected artery, but may include:
-
Chest pain or pressure (angina)
-
Symptoms of a stroke, such as numbness or weakness in the arms or legs, slurred speech, sagging facial muscles, or temporary vision loss
-
My feet hurt when I walk
-
Decreased blood pressure in the affected limb
Who is at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease?
Men over the age of 45 and women over the age of 55 are at risk for developing ASCVD. Other risk factors include:
-
Family history of cardiovascular disease
-
Diabetes
-
high blood pressure
-
high cholesterol
-
smoking or smoking
-
Meals high in saturated fat, sodium, and sugar
-
A life without physical activity
What can be done about atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease?
In addition to a physical exam, there are several tests that can help evaluate blood flow in different areas of the body, such as Doppler ultrasound and cardiac catheterization.
Depending on the severity of plaque buildup, your health care provider may recommend medications such as blood thinners and drugs to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. In more advanced cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to widen the damaged artery or remove the blockage.
How can I prevent it? Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease?
In addition to regular physical exams, a healthy lifestyle is the best way to protect yourself from ASCVD.
The American Heart Association recommends eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and seafood, and aiming for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. It also recommends avoiding foods high in salt, sugar, and full-fat dairy products. In addition to a healthy diet and exercise, avoiding alcohol and tobacco are key to lowering her chances of developing ASCVD.
Let us know what you think by commenting below or tweeting us @.YahooStyleCA!follow me twitter and Instagram.
