What happens if the plaque ruptures?

Plaque rupture is a critical event in the development of atherothrombosis, the underlying cause of most heart attacks and strokes. When a plaque ruptures, it exposes the inner contents of the plaque, including cholesterol crystals and inflammatory cells, to the blood. This can trigger the formation of a blood clot, which can block blood flow to the heart or brain, leading to a heart attack or stroke.

Plaque rupture is more likely to occur in plaques that are:

* Large

* Thin-walled

* Located in areas of high blood flow

* Composed of a large amount of cholesterol and inflammatory cells

Plaque rupture can be prevented by:

* Controlling blood pressure

* Lowering cholesterol levels

* Quitting smoking

* Eating a healthy diet

* Exercising regularly

* Managing diabetes

If you have any of the risk factors for plaque rupture, it is important to see your doctor regularly to monitor your plaque and to take steps to reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.