Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaque—a mix of cholesterol, fat, and other substances—inside your arteries. Over time, this narrows the vessels that carry blood to your heart, brain, and other organs. Understanding what causes it, how doctors detect it, and what happens if it progresses helps you make informed decisions about your health and work with your doctor on prevention or treatment.

The articles here explain how atherosclerosis develops, what symptoms or warning signs to watch for, and what tests show whether you have it. You'll learn about lifestyle changes and medications that can slow or manage the condition, as well as when procedures or surgery might be recommended. They also cover how to reduce your risk if you have risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes.