# Heart Problems: Atherosclerosis and Arteriosclerosis **Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs)** encompass conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. This section focuses on *atherosclerosis* and *arteriosclerosis*, two related conditions that contribute significantly to CVDs. These conditions are closely linked to the and . ## Atherosclerosis - **Definition:** Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the plaque deposition of cholesterol within the inner lining (lumen) of the arteries. - **Process:** - Cholesterol accumulates, forming fatty streaks that develop into plaques. - This deposition leads to the narrowing of the arteries' lumen, restricting blood flow. - **Initial Plaque Formation:** The initial localized plaque formed is known as a *thrombus*. ## Arteriosclerosis - **Definition:** Arteriosclerosis is the hardening and calcification of arterial walls, often as a progression of atherosclerosis. - **Process:** - Following cholesterol deposition in atherosclerosis, fibres are deposited within the cholesterol plaque. - These plaques then calcify and become hard, a process that defines arteriosclerosis. ## Plaque Complications - **Thrombus:** The initial, stationary plaque formed by cholesterol and other substances in the artery is called a *thrombus*. - **Embolus:** A *thrombus* that detaches from the artery wall and travels through the bloodstream is termed an *embolus*. An embolus can cause blockages in smaller vessels elsewhere in the body (e.g., lungs, brain, heart). ## Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis and Arteriosclerosis A variety of factors contribute to the development and progression of these arterial diseases. - **Major Risk Factors:** - **Hypercholesterolemia (Hyperlipidemia):** High levels of cholesterol or other lipids in the blood. - **Hypertension:** Persistently high blood pressure. - **Cigarette Smoking:** Damages blood vessel walls and promotes plaque formation. - **Diabetes Mellitus:** High blood glucose levels contribute to arterial damage. - **Minor Risk Factors:** - **Increasing Age:** The risk generally increases with age. - **Lack of Exercise:** Contributes to obesity, hypertension, and unfavorable cholesterol levels. - **Stressful Competitive Life:** Chronic stress can impact cardiovascular health. - **Obesity:** Excess body fat is linked to multiple major risk factors (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia). ## Related Cardiac Conditions While atherosclerosis affects the vessels, it often leads to clinical conditions of the heart muscle itself, such as . ### Angina Pectoris This is chest pain resulting from reduced blood flow to the heart muscle (ischemia), often due to narrowed coronary arteries. ### Heart Failure This occurs when the heart muscle cannot pump blood as well as it should. It is a chronic condition that differs from a sudden heart attack.