What is arterioschorosis?

Arteriosclerosis is a general term for the thickening and hardening of the walls of the arteries. It is also sometimes referred to as hardening of the arteries.

Arteriosclerosis is a common disease that affects people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults. It is a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and other serious health problems.

There are many different types of arteriosclerosis, but the most common is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is caused by the buildup of plaque on the inside walls of the arteries. Plaque is made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances.

As plaque builds up, it can narrow the arteries and make it harder for blood to flow through them. This can lead to a number of problems, including:

* Heart attack: If plaque blocks an artery that supplies blood to the heart, it can cause a heart attack.

* Stroke: If plaque blocks an artery that supplies blood to the brain, it can cause a stroke.

* Peripheral artery disease: If plaque blocks an artery that supplies blood to the legs or arms, it can cause peripheral artery disease.

* Aortic aneurysm: If plaque builds up in the aorta, the largest artery in the body, it can cause an aortic aneurysm.

Arteriosclerosis can also lead to kidney failure, blindness, and other serious health problems.

There are a number of things that can increase your risk of arteriosclerosis, including:

* High blood pressure

* High cholesterol

* Diabetes

* Smoking

* Obesity

* Physical inactivity

* Family history of arteriosclerosis

If you have any of these risk factors, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of arteriosclerosis.