What Is Arteriosclerosis?
Arteriosclerosis is a general term that describes the thickening, hardening, and loss of elasticity of the arteries. As arteries become less flexible, blood flow becomes more difficult, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis, caused by the buildup of fatty plaque inside the arteries, is the most common type of arteriosclerosis.
Arteriosclerosis often develops gradually over many years and may not cause symptoms until blood flow becomes significantly restricted.
Why Arteriosclerosis Matters
Healthy arteries allow blood to circulate efficiently throughout the body. As arteries stiffen or narrow, the risk of heart attack, stroke, peripheral artery disease, kidney disease, and other complications increases.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Aging
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
Possible Symptoms
Early arteriosclerosis often causes no symptoms. As blood flow becomes restricted, symptoms depend on the affected arteries and may include:
- Chest pain (angina)
- Leg pain while walking
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Numbness or weakness
- Slow-healing wounds
- Stroke symptoms
How Is Arteriosclerosis Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers may diagnose arteriosclerosis using a physical examination, blood pressure measurements, cholesterol testing, ultrasound, ankle-brachial index (ABI), CT scans, MRI, stress testing, or angiography.
How Is Arteriosclerosis Treated?
Treatment focuses on slowing disease progression through healthy lifestyle changes, cholesterol-lowering medications, blood pressure control, diabetes management, smoking cessation, regular exercise, and procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery when necessary.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals support cardiovascular health by encouraging medication adherence, promoting heart-healthy meals, assisting with safe physical activity, monitoring symptoms, encouraging smoking cessation, and helping manage chronic conditions.
Home Care Tip
Small lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and controlling blood pressure, can significantly reduce your risk of cardiovascular complications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arteriosclerosis
Is arteriosclerosis the same as atherosclerosis?
No. Arteriosclerosis is the general term for hardening of the arteries, while atherosclerosis is a specific type caused by plaque buildup inside the arteries.
Can arteriosclerosis be reversed?
Although existing damage is often permanent, treatment and lifestyle changes can slow progression, reduce symptoms, and lower the risk of complications.
Can home care help people with arteriosclerosis?
Yes. Home care professionals help individuals manage medications, maintain healthy routines, monitor symptoms, and support long-term cardiovascular health.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop chest pain, sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, severe leg pain, or other symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.