Arteriosclerosis is a hardening of the arteries caused by the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances in the blood that can build up on the walls of arteries and cause a narrowing of the arteries. This narrowing of the arteries is known as atherosclerosis.
Arteriosclerosis is a progressive disease, meaning it worsens over time. Over time, the plaque can become thick and hard, leading to a decrease in blood flow and reduced oxygen and nutrient supply to tissues and organs, which can lead to serious health problems. Symptoms of arteriosclerosis include chest pain, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Unfortunately, arteriosclerosis is not curable. However, there are treatments available to manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. These treatments include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Medications such as statins, blood pressure medications, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may also be prescribed to reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure and improve blood flow.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove plaque buildup or to bypass narrowed arteries. Surgery is often used to treat serious complications of arteriosclerosis that have developed, such as a heart attack or stroke.