How Atherosclerosis Develops and What Are the Biggest Risks?
How atherosclerosis develops and why it is important to recognize the risk in time, writes Dr. Biljana Petrevska.
TL;DR
- Atherosclerosis is the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup (fats, cholesterol, calcium).
- Plaque growth restricts blood flow, reducing oxygen and nutrient supply to organs and tissues.
- Detached plaque can form blood clots, leading to blockages and serious events like heart attack and stroke.
- Risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking.
- The process involves endothelial damage, fatty streak formation, plaque growth with a fibrous cap, and potential plaque rupture leading to blood clots.