atherosclerosis Definition
- 1a disease of the arteries characterized by the deposition of plaques of fatty material on their inner walls.
- 2a condition where plaque builds up inside the arteries, causing them to harden and narrow, leading to reduced blood flow.
Using atherosclerosis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "atherosclerosis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Atherosclerosis can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Example
Smoking is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis.
Example
Atherosclerosis is a common cause of peripheral artery disease.
Phrases with atherosclerosis
a type of heart disease caused by atherosclerosis in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle
Example
Coronary artery disease is a serious condition that can lead to heart attack or heart failure.
a condition caused by atherosclerosis in the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain
Example
Carotid artery disease can lead to stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
a condition caused by atherosclerosis in the arteries that supply blood to the limbs
Example
Peripheral artery disease can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs, and can lead to gangrene or amputation.
Origins of atherosclerosis
from Greek 'athero-' meaning 'porridge' and 'sclerosis' meaning 'hardening'
Summary: atherosclerosis in Brief
'Atherosclerosis' [ˌæθərəʊskləˈrəʊsɪs] is a disease of the arteries characterized by the deposition of plaques of fatty material on their inner walls. It can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. Smoking is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. Phrases like 'coronary artery disease,' 'carotid artery disease,' and 'peripheral artery disease' denote specific types of atherosclerosis affecting different parts of the body.