Atherosclerosis or Coronary Artery Disease

Atherosclerosis is a disease that affects the blood vessels called arteries, which carry blood to the organs of the body. Normal arteries allow blood to flow freely. However, these arteries can become hardened and narrowed by deposits called plaques. Plaques are made up of cholesterol and inflammatory substances. The disease process is called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerotic plaques build up over time and can decrease the amount of blood flow to the area the artery supplies. Atherosclerosis can begin at a young age even though it may not cause problems until years later. Atherosclerosis increases the risk of kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke.