Arterial calcification, often called “hardening of the arteries,” is a condition where calcium deposits accumulate in blood vessel walls. This buildup reduces arterial flexibility and impacts blood flow throughout the body. While common, especially with age, its presence indicates underlying changes in vascular health.
The Process of Arterial Calcification
Arterial calcification is a complex biological process. It is closely linked to atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of fatty plaques in the arteries. Within these plaques, muscle cells in the arterial walls can transform into bone-like cells, actively depositing calcium phosphate crystals. This process resembles bone formation and is influenced by inflammatory and atherogenic stimuli within the vessel wall.
The development of these calcium deposits is gradual and progressive, often beginning after age 40. Most individuals over 60 show some degree of diffuse calcification. Factors increasing susceptibility include advanced age, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol levels, and smoking.
Impact on Cardiovascular Health
The accumulation of calcium in arterial walls reduces arterial elasticity. Stiffened arteries are less able to expand and contract with each heartbeat, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. This increased workload can lead to a range of cardiovascular complications.
One direct consequence is elevated blood pressure, as rigid arteries offer more resistance to blood flow. Over time, this can contribute to conditions such as aortic stenosis, where the aortic valve narrows due to calcification, obstructing blood flow from the heart. Arterial calcification also reduces blood supply to the heart muscle, potentially leading to myocardial ischemia and increasing the risk of heart attacks. The extent of calcium deposits correlates with atherosclerotic disease burden and can predict future adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.
Diagnosis and Management Approaches
Detecting arterial calcification involves imaging techniques to visualize calcium deposits in the heart’s arteries. A common method is the Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scan, a specialized computed tomography (CT) scan that measures the amount of calcified plaque. This non-invasive test produces a calcium score, with higher scores indicating a greater presence of calcification and an increased risk of future cardiovascular events. A score of zero suggests a low probability of a heart attack, while scores over 300 indicate more extensive disease and a higher risk.
Management strategies for arterial calcification focus on controlling underlying risk factors and slowing the condition’s progression. Lifestyle modifications are fundamental, including adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and sodium, engaging in regular physical activity, and quitting smoking. Maintaining a healthy weight also supports cardiovascular well-being.
Medications play a role in managing associated health conditions. For example, statins are often prescribed to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, while various antihypertensive drugs help control blood pressure. For individuals with diabetes, blood glucose management is also an important component of care. While these interventions do not reverse existing calcification, they help stabilize atherosclerotic plaques and prevent further arterial damage, reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events.