Research has linked multiple sclerosis (MS) to problems with the heart and blood vessels. But whether MS raises your risk for atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) isn’t as clear.

Atherosclerosis is a common disease of the blood vessels with many risk factors. If left untreated, atherosclerosis can have life-threatening consequences. Here’s what you should know about MS, atherosclerosis, and how to lower your risk.

What Is Atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis develops when plaque builds up in the blood vessels, narrowing the passageway for blood.

Plaque is made up of substances including cholesterol, fat, blood cells, and calcium. It’s sticky, and it hardens over time.

Everyone has some plaque in their arteries. It can start building up in childhood. In atherosclerosis, too much plaque buildup starts to cause problems.

🗳️ Have you been diagnosed with atherosclerosis along with MS?

Yes, I have atherosclerosis and MS.

No, I’ve never been diagnosed with atherosclerosis.

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Types and Symptoms of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis can develop in arteries anywhere in the body. Different types of atherosclerosis affect blood vessels in different parts of the body.

Most people don’t notice any symptoms at first. However, atherosclerosis can make it harder to exercise. Atherosclerosis may also cause trouble getting an erection (erectile dysfunction).

Symptoms depend on the location of the plaques.

Dangers of Atherosclerosis

If plaque buildup becomes severe, you may develop a blood clot. Blood clots can block blood flow entirely.

When blood flow is limited or blocked, essential organs don’t get the oxygen and nutrients they need. Limited blood flow can cause serious short-term consequences, such as a stroke or heart attack, and long-term conditions, such as vascular dementia.

Blood clots can also become dislodged and travel to the heart, brain, or lungs. Potential life-threatening complications of blood clots include heart attacks, strokes, and pulmonary embolisms.

General Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis

There are several risk factors for atherosclerosis. Some you can control. Others, you can’t.

Smoking and not getting enough exercise put you at risk for atherosclerosis. Getting older is also a risk factor. Risk increases for men over 45 and women over 55, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Library of Medicine.

Health conditions linked to atherosclerosis include:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• High cholesterol
• Type 2 diabetes

Metabolic syndrome, which is a combination of obesity and some of the conditions above, also raises the risk of atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis and Vascular Issues in MS

Ischemic heart disease, where parts of your heart don’t get enough blood, is more common in people with MS. This form of heart disease is caused by narrowed arteries.

Ischemic heart disease may be related to lower physical activity levels in people with MS. Higher rates of obesity, smoking history, alcohol use, and low income levels also put people with MS at risk.

Smoking as a Primary Risk Factor for People With MS

One study found that smoking was one of the biggest risk factors for atherosclerosis in people with different types of MS. This study looked at 396 people with relapsing-remitting MS and secondary progressive MS.

In the study, 18.4 percent of participants had a history of smoking, making it the most commonly reported atherosclerosis risk factor in the group. Diabetes was the least common, reported in just 4.5 percent of participants. Researchers pointed to the immune system as a common factor between MS and atherosclerosis.

MS Inflammation and Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis and MS are both inflammatory diseases.

Other inflammatory conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), are associated with atherosclerosis. Studies show that people with RA develop atherosclerosis earlier, even if they don’t have other risk factors.

Researchers also have wondered if MS inflammation promotes atherosclerosis. However, one study looked at 106 people with MS and 101 people without MS. They didn’t find a strong link between atherosclerosis and MS.

How To Lower Your Risk for Atherosclerosis

More research is needed to better understand the relationship between MS and atherosclerosis. That said, having MS is a good reason to focus on your heart and blood vessel health.

Getting enough sleep, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk for atherosclerosis. Here are some key areas to work on.

Eat Healthy

A heart-healthy diet is one of the best defenses against atherosclerosis. Do your best to avoid saturated fat, added sugar, and sodium.

Instead, focus on natural plant foods, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans. A registered dietitian nutritionist can help you make simple changes that move your diet in the right direction.

Keep Moving

Regular exercise helps keep your blood flowing. With MS, exercise isn’t always easy. Your healthcare provider can help you find safe ways to stay active with MS. Even moving more at home makes a difference.

If it’s available near you, consider a water exercise program. Water exercise is gentle on the body and keeps you cool while you work out.

Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Drinking less and not smoking are both beneficial for preventing atherosclerosis. Secondhand smoke counts, too.

“I have poor circulation in my feet. Smoked for way too long,” shared a MyMSTeam member. “Exercise is most helpful. Walking is good.”

If you work or live in an environment where others smoke, consider making a change to reduce your exposure.

Talk to Your Doctor About Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis can develop, even if you’re doing everything right. You can still protect yourself against complications with your doctor’s support.

First, keep up with your healthcare appointments. If you have risk factors, like high blood pressure or diabetes, follow your treatment plan to keep these conditions under control.

Watch out for warning signs of a problem, like chest pain, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath. These issues should be taken seriously and brought to your doctor’s attention right away.

Some people with atherosclerosis need surgery to restore blood flow. A cardiac rehabilitation program can also help build your stamina and endurance.