Atherosclerosis

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances (plaque) in and on the artery walls. This restricts blood flow and can cause an artery to burst, triggering a blood clot.

Treatments

A healthy diet and exercise can help. Treatments include medications, procedures to flatten plaque and hold arteries open, and surgery.