Arteriosclerosis is the vascular disease that is the leading cause of mortality in industrialized countries. Arteriosclerosis is a general term use to describe several conditions in which the arteries become narrow and blocked, also known as hardening of the arteries. The condition is a leading cause of stroke and is associated with heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and other disorders.
Arteriosclerosis produces fatty material, called plaque that accumulates and lines the artery walls. The arteries become smaller in diameters, then clogged. This results in decreases blood circulation or cessation of the blood flow.
The deposits can partially or completely obstruct blood flow to the heart the brain and other vital organs. Arteries in the arms, legs, hands and feet can also be affected.
Coronary artery disease is one type of arteriosclerosis that affects only the inner linings of arteries; it is responsible for most heart disease. Obesity is strongly associated with the metabolic syndrome, which promotes arteriosclerosis and coronary artery disease.
Currently, there are 3 lesions within the broader category of arteriosclerosis:
*Atherosclerosis
*Monckeberg’s arteriosclerosis
* Arteriolosclerosis: associated with hypertension
What is arteriosclerosis?
