From the Guidelines
The layman's term for arterial plaque is "hardening of the arteries" or "clogged arteries," which is medically referred to as atherosclerotic plaque or atheroma. This condition occurs when fatty deposits, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances build up along the inner walls of arteries, forming a substance called plaque 1. Over time, this plaque can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to vital organs and tissues. The medical term for this condition is atherosclerosis. As plaque accumulates, it can cause the arteries to become stiff and less flexible, which is why it's often described as "hardening." Some key points to consider about arterial plaque include:
- It is defined as a mass lesion or loss of a layered structure of the vessel wall 1
- The buildup of plaque can lead to serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes if left unmanaged
- Risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and a family history of heart disease
- Managing these risk factors through lifestyle changes and medications when necessary can help prevent or slow the progression of arterial plaque. The formation of arterial plaque is a complex process, and understanding its development is crucial for preventing and treating related health issues 1.
From the Research
Arterial Plaque Definition
- Arterial plaque is a buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances in the arteries, also known as atherosclerosis 2, 3.
- This buildup can lead to hardening and narrowing of the arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Layman's Term for Arterial Plaque
- A common layman's term for arterial plaque is "hardening of the arteries" or simply "plaque buildup" 4.
- It is essential to understand that arterial plaque is a serious medical condition that requires attention and treatment to prevent further complications.
Key Points About Arterial Plaque
- Arterial plaque is a complex condition that involves the accumulation of various substances, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, in the arterial walls 5, 6.
- The progression of arterial plaque can be influenced by various factors, including statin therapy, which has been shown to slow down or even reverse the buildup of plaque in some cases 2, 3.