What Are Atherosclerosis and Arteriosclerosis

Arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis are often used interchangeably, but while they are related, they are different conditions.

Arteriosclerosis refers to the hardening of the arteries, which hinders blood circulation. Atherosclerosis, on the other hand, is a type of arteriosclerosis characterized by the buildup of plaque (cholesterol and fat) in the artery walls, causing narrowing and restricted blood flow.

Why Do the Arteries of the Heart Get Blocked?

Although the exact cause of atherosclerosis is unknown, several diseases and conditions are known to damage arteries and promote its development, including:

• High blood pressure
• Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Insulin resistance
• Overweight and obesity
• Arthritis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Psoriasis
• Lupus

Mild cases are often asymptomatic. As the disease progresses and arteries become more obstructed, symptoms begin to appear, depending on which arteries are affected.

• Heart arteries:
  • Chest pain
  • Chest tightness
• Brain arteries:
  • Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
  • Speech difficulties
  • Vision problems
  • Facial muscle drooping
• Arm and leg arteries:
  • Pain when walking
  • Low blood pressure in the affected limb
• Kidney arteries:
  • High blood pressure
  • Kidney failure

Possible Complications of Atherosclerosis Include:

• Angina (chest pain)
• Heart attack
• Heart failure
• Aneurysm
• Chronic kidney disease
• Stroke
• Peripheral artery disease

The physician will evaluate your symptoms and medical history, conduct a physical examination, and request a series of tests to make an accurate diagnosis. These may include blood tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test, echocardiogram, doppler ultrasound, angiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET scan)

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition but generally includes lifestyle changes, exercise and diet plans, medications, and in more serious cases, surgery.

At the Vascular, Arterial, and Venous Disease Department of ABC Medical Center, we offer specialized care. Contact us!