Atherosclerosis

Also known as: arteriosclerosis, arteriosclerotic vascular disease, ASVD.

What is atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is the term used to describe the buildup of plaque, or fatty deposits of cholesterol, fat, calcium and other substances in the arteries of the body. The process starts in childhood which over time narrows the arteries that contribute to a number of heart and circulatory problems usually later in life.

It is unusual for children or adolescents to have the complications associated with significant atherosclerosis (heart attack and stroke).  

What causes atherosclerosis?

Risk factors for atherosclerosis include:

• family history of heart attack or stroke
• obesity (and the metabolic syndrome)
• depression/bipolar disorders
• smoking (and/or exposure to cigarette smoke)
• high blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• diabetes
• chronic kidney disease
• and similar medical problems

What are the symptoms of atherosclerosis?

At first, atherosclerosis might not cause any symptoms. Over time, it can contribute to the development of blood clots, chest pain, coronary heart disease, heart attack, stroke and a variety of other circulatory problems. 

What are atherosclerosis care options?

Treatment approaches include lifestyle choices, decreasing risk factors where possible and medications.

In severe instances, catheters can be used along with a balloon to enlarge the artery (angioplasty) and stents can be placed in them. Bypass surgery, where a blood vessel is surgically inserted to go around the blocked portion, is also a potential treatment. 

Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: July 25, 2024 12:48 PM