Atherosclerosis, sometimes called "hardening of the arteries," occurs when fat (cholesterol) and calcium build up inside the lining of the artery wall, forming a substance called plaque. Over time, the fat and calcium buildup narrows the artery and blocks blood flow through it.
Where does atherosclerosis occur in the body?
Atherosclerosis can affect any artery in the body, including arteries in the heart, brain, arms, legs, pelvis, and kidneys. As a result, different diseases may develop based on which arteries are affected.
Where does atherosclerosis most commonly occur?
The most common locations for atherosclerosis are:
- Arteries in the heart, known as coronary atherosclerosis;
- Arteries that supply the legs, known as peripheral arterial disease (pad);
- Arteries that supply the brain, known as carotid artery disease.
