No, atherosclerosis does not happen suddenly. It is a long-term, progressive process that usually occurs over many years. It is caused by a buildup of plaque on the walls of arteries, commonly referred to as “hardening of the arteries.” This plaque build-up is made up of cholesterol, fat, cellular waste products, and calcium, among other substances.
Atherosclerosis occurs when the artery walls become thick and stiff, leading to reduced blood flow. This can cause a wide range of health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. The gradual buildup of plaque in the arteries can also lead to aneurysms, which occur when a weakened artery wall balloons out and may eventually burst.
As atherosclerosis is a slow, progressive process, it is important to take steps to prevent it from occurring in the first place. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. If you already have atherosclerosis, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for treating and managing the condition.
