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Chapters

0:00 Introduction
0:32 Symptoms of Atherosclerosis
1:35 Causes of Atherosclerosis
2:10 Diagnosis of Atherosclerosis
2:32 Treatment of Atherosclerosis


Atherosclerosis is a pattern of the disease arteriosclerosis[7] in which the wall of the artery develops abnormalities, called lesions. These lesions may lead to narrowing due to the buildup of atheromatous plaque.[8] At onset there are usually no symptoms, but if they develop, symptoms generally begin around middle age.[1] When severe, it can result in coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease, or kidney problems, depending on which arteries are affected.[1]

The exact cause is not known.[1] Risk factors include abnormal cholesterol levels, elevated levels of inflammatory markers,[9] high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, family history, and an unhealthy diet.[3] Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood.[8] The narrowing of arteries limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to parts of the body.[8] Diagnosis is based upon a physical exam, electrocardiogram, and exercise stress test, among others.[10]

Prevention is generally by eating a healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, and maintaining a normal weight.[4] Treatment of established disease may include medications to lower cholesterol such as statins, blood pressure medication, or medications that decrease clotting, such as aspirin.[5] A number of procedures may also be carried out such as percutaneous coronary intervention, coronary artery bypass graft, or carotid endarterectomy.[5]

Atherosclerosis generally starts when a person is young and worsens with age.[2] Almost all people are affected to some degree by the age of 65.[6] It is the number one cause of death and disability in the developed world.[11] Though it was first described in 1575,[12] there is evidence that the condition occurred in people more than 5,000 years ago.[12]