Atherosclerosis

Provided by: Healthwise
Not yet rated

Illustration of atherosclerosis

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Atherosclerosis, sometimes called hardening of the arteries, occurs when fat (cholesterol) and calcium build up in the inner lining of the arteries, forming a substance called plaque. Over time, the plaque buildup narrows the artery and blocks blood flow through it.

Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery
Last Updated: 03/13/2006

© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.

Was this article helpful?
Tell us what you think.

Be the first to rate!
liked it no thanks

In the Spotlight

How's Your Cholesterol?

Knowing that you have high cholesterol is the first step to getting it under control.

What level is too high? »

Yahoo! Groups

Join the Conversation:

Join a Yahoo! Group and discuss topics with other members of the group.

All Cholesterol Groups »

Yahoo! Health Videos

My Health

help

Tip of the Day

Provided by: RealAge

Put down that irksome, unsolvable crossword puzzle, and cut yourself some slack for blanking on the final round of Jeopardy. Read More »

View All Tips »

Tell us what you think about Yahoo! Health - Send us your feedback