Endothelial dysfunction

endothelial dysfunction

Endothelial dysfunction is when the inner lining of blood vessels does not work the way it should to control blood flow, clotting, and inflammation. The endothelium normally helps blood vessels relax, prevents unneeded clotting, and signals the immune system when there is injury. When it becomes dysfunctional, vessels can become narrow, sticky, and inflamed, which reduces healthy blood flow to organs. This problem can come from high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, aging, and oxidative stress from poor diet or pollution. Endothelial dysfunction matters because it is an early step in the development of heart disease, stroke, and poor circulation that can harm organs such as the eyes and kidneys. Doctors can infer the condition from risk factors, blood tests, and special measurements of how vessels respond to increased blood flow. The good news is that it is often reversible with lifestyle changes like exercise, healthier eating, quitting smoking, and controlling blood pressure and blood sugar. Medications that improve cholesterol, lower blood pressure, or reduce inflammation can also help restore better vessel function. Preventing or treating endothelial dysfunction reduces the chance of heart attacks, strokes, and other complications linked to poor blood vessel health.