Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a disease caused by the buildup of fatty deposits on the inner side of arteries called as plaque. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients rich blood to the heart, brain, and other parts of the body.
Plaque and Atherosclerosis
The so-called plaque is made out of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and some other substances available in the blood. Over time plaque buildup causes narrowing of arteries and reduces oxygen and nutrient rich blood to brain, heart, and other part of the body. Also plaques harden causing hardening of arteries. This can develops to more serious conditions, including heart attack, stroke, or may even end up with death.
Atherosclerosis otherwise called as
- Arteriosclerosis
- Hardening of the arteries
Atherosclerosis Causes
Atherosclerosis may start when there is damage in the inner layers of the arteries. This damage may be caused by:
- Smoking
- High cholesterol or hyperlipidemia
- High blood pressure or hypertension
- High blood glucose or diabetes
Over time, the plaque became harden and may crack. Platelet a blood cells join together causes blood clots over the cracked plaque. This further narrows the arteries and worsens chest pain called angina or even causes a heart attack.
