Signs of Arteriosclerosis

Arteriosclerosis is the medical term for hardening of the arteries. Arteriosclerosis occurs either as a result of high blood pressure, high cholesterol or both. High blood pressure can cause the arteries to become stiff and thick, which restricts blood flow throughout the body. High cholesterol can cause an excessive build-up of plaque inside the arteries that significantly restrict blood flow. Arteriosclerosis most commonly occurs in the arteries of the heart, but it can affect any arteries within the body.

Heart Pain

• Arteriosclerosis of the heart's arteries may cause angina and may eventually lead to a heart attack.

Neurological Symptoms

• Arteriosclerosis may affect the arteries that supply the brain. In this case, symptoms may include arm and leg weakness and/or numbness, slurred speech or facial droopiness.

Leg and Arm Symptoms

• The legs may also be affected by arteriosclerosis if the arteries in the legs become damaged. Symptoms of atherosclerosis of the legs usually involve pain when walking.

Other Symptoms

• Arteriosclerosis sometimes causes men to experience erectile dysfunction.

Long-term Complications

• Arteriosclerosis may eventually lead to coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease and carotid artery disease. It may cause the formation of aneurysms.