What is atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis sounds like a hard word, but the idea behind it is simple. Here is what it means, in everyday language, for readers around Frankfort, Illinois.

What it is

medlineplus.gov says atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up inside your arteries. It describes plaque as a sticky substance made up of cholesterol, fat, blood cells, calcium, and other substances found in the blood.

Putting a picture to it

Think of the word as a name for that buildup and nothing more. You do not need to remember the parts of plaque to follow the rest of this site. The MedlinePlus page on atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis covers the same topic.

Two more pages worth opening

The Society for Vascular Surgery page on carotid artery disease is one example to explore. If you also have questions about veins, my.clevelandclinic.org has a page on spider veins.

A first step

Jot down what you want to understand, then take that list to a clinician.