Atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis are both related to the hardening and narrowing of arteries, but they refer to different conditions:
Atherosclerosis:
- Atherosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis that involves the buildup of plaque inside the arteries.
- It is characterized by the accumulation of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances in the walls of arteries, forming plaques.
- These plaques can restrict blood flow and may lead to complications such as heart attack or stroke.
- Atherosclerosis is often referred to as “hardening of the arteries.”
Arteriosclerosis:
- Arteriosclerosis is a general term that refers to any thickening and hardening of arterial walls.
- It encompasses several conditions, including atherosclerosis but also other forms such as Monckeberg’s sclerosis (medial calcific sclerosis) and arteriolosclerosis (small vessel disease).
- Arteriosclerosis can result from aging, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, or other risk factors.
In summary, atherosclerosis specifically refers to the buildup of plaque in arteries leading to blockages, while arteriosclerosis is a broader term encompassing any thickening and hardening of arterial walls.
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