|
|
||||
 | ||||
|
|
Atherosclerosis (Hardening of the Arteries)Coronary artery disease, or coronary heart disease, is the most common form of heart disease and is caused by the narrowing of arteries that carry blood to the heart. It is the number one killer of both men and women in the U.S. Narrowing or blockage of the arteries is caused by atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) -- a build-up of fatty deposits, cholesterol and plaque present in the bloodstream. These deposits may settle at specific points in the arteries, causing the immune system to respond, resulting in inflammation or blood clots of the area. When blood flow to the heart is slowed or stopped, it can cause angina (chest pain), congestive heart failure or heart attack. Blood clots may break away, travel to the brain and cause stroke. [ Previous page ]
|
||
 |
||||
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
