Atherosclerosis

Main Entry: ath·ero·scle·ro·sis
Pronunciation: ath- -r -skl - r -s s
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural -ro·ses /- s z/

: An arteriosclerosis characterized by atheromatous deposits in and fibrosis of the inner layer of the arteries.

Atherosclerosis is the build up of plaque, which are fatty deposits on the inside walls of the arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood and oxygen to the heart, brain, and other body parts. When plaque builds up in the artery it becomes smaller and narrower, and may become clogged.

Atherosclerosis can lead to clogged arteries in any part of the body. When the arteries to the heart are affected, angina (chest pain) or a heart attack may result. If arteries in the leg are affected, leg pain may occur. Atherosclerosis of the arteries to the brain can cause strokes

Atherosclerosis is common in the United States. It often starts in childhood and the arteries become narrowed or clogged over many years.

There are usually no symptoms until an artery is so clogged, blood can't move through it easily anymore. This can cause pain and discomfort. When the artery gets completely clogged, it can cause heart attack or stroke.

Risk factors include:

having high blood cholesterol, especially high LDL ("bad cholesterol") and low HDL ("good cholesterol") levels

aging and being male (women are affected more after menopause)

having close relatives who had heart disease or a stroke at a relatively young age

having high blood pressure

having diabetes

smoking

having trouble managing stress

being obese being physically inactive