Definition:

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Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fatty material can build up in your arteries over time. Your arteries narrow and become less flexible, causing blood flow to slow or eventually become blocked.

If this occurs in your coronary (heart) arteries, you may have chest pain or shortness of breath. If the heart artery becomes completely blocked you may have a heart attack.

Pieces of this fatty material (plaque) can also break off into your bloodstream. Blood clots can form around these pieces forming clots. These clots can move to certain areas of your body and can block blood flow. For example if the clot goes to your brain you could be at risk for a stroke.

Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• High-fat diet
• Obesity
• Family history of heart disease
• Smoking

Treatment:

You may not have symptoms until blood flow is slowed or blocked. Your doctor may suggest exercise, a healthy diet, maintaining a good weight and not smoking to help reduce the chance that problems occur.

There are many different medications used to treat atherosclerosis. Your doctor may prescribe medication to lower your cholesterol or keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. Blood thinners may also be given to prevent clot formation. Early detection of this disease is important, so if you experience symptoms let your doctor know immediately.