Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a condition where your arteries, the tubes carrying blood, become clogged with fatty buildup, making it harder for blood to flow through.
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Find CardiologistsClinical Overview
Think of your arteries as smooth, flexible pipes that carry oxygen-rich blood to your heart and the rest of your body. Sometimes, a sticky substance called plaque—a mix of fat, cholesterol, and other materials—starts to build up on the inner walls of these pipes. Over time, this makes the arteries narrow and stiff, which limits the blood flow your body needs to function well.
This can happen in any artery, but it most commonly affects the arteries in your heart, neck, legs, and kidneys. When blood can’t reach these areas easily, it can cause serious problems for your organs, which is why catching it early is so important.
Common Symptoms
- Chest pain, also known as angina, which can feel like pressure or tightness.
- Sudden weakness or numbness in your arms or legs.
- Slurred speech or temporary loss of vision in one eye.
- Leg pain when walking, which usually goes away with rest.