Plaque Development in the Arteries

According to the American Heart Association, atherosclerosis causes coronary heart disease. Atherosclerosis is the narrowing of arteries due to plaque development. The heart is affected most often, but any artery is at risk. When an artery is blocked, blood flow is reduced.

Features

• Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to your body from your heart. Atherosclerosis is a type of arteriosclerosis in which plaque develops in the arteries. The arteries are normally strong, elastic, and flexible. However, they can become thick and stiff if too much pressure is applied. This is called arteriosclerosis, and is most commonly known as hardening of the arteries.

Fact

• Atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis are two separate conditions. They are often used interchangeably, but they aren't the same. Arteriosclerosis is hardening of the arteries, which doesn't automatically mean plaque is present. Atherosclerosis is when the artery wall thickens because of plaque buildup. Although the heart is most often affected, plaque can develop in any artery in the body.

Development

• According to "How to Prevent Your Stroke," plaque develops after an artery is injured. Plaque is made of inflammatory cells, fibrous tissue, and smooth muscle cells that move in to repair the injured artery. It's similar to when scar tissue develops over a wound. The problem results when some repair cells become swollen with cholesterol, which can eventually lead to a blocked artery.

Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of plaque buildup depend on which arteries are affected. If heart arteries are affected, you might experience chest pain. Your arms or legs might suddenly become weak if arteries leading to the brain are affected. You might also experience slurred speech or drooping face muscles. If the arteries in your arms or legs are affected, you might feel pain when walking.

Treatment

• Keeping your cholesterol under control is the best way to prevent or delay atherosclerosis. If you already have the condition, long-term medical care is necessary.