A common disorder of the arteries. Yellowish plaques
of cholesterol, fats, and other remains are deposited
in the walls of large and medium-sized arteries.
The vessel walls become thick and hardened and the
vessel narrows.
This lessens circulation to organs and other areas
normally supplied by the artery. These plaques (atheromas)
are major causes of heart disease, chest pain (angina
pectoris), heart attacks, and other disorders of
the circulation.
How atherosclerosis develops is not clear. It may
begin with injury to the artery or with an increase
of muscle in vessel walls. Excess saturated fats
in the diet, faulty carbohydrate processing, or
a genetic defect may be other causes.
Risk Factors
Atherosclerosis usually occurs with aging. It is
often linked to being overweight, high blood pressure,
and diabetes.
