Final answer:
Heart attacks and strokes are primarily driven by atherosclerosis, which is the accumulation and hardening of plaque in the arteries. Plaque is formed from a buildup of fatty and calcified deposits and can restrict blood flow, possibly leading to heart attacks and strokes. Other compounding factors like high glucose levels, tobacco use, and hypertension also contribute.
Step-by-step explanation:
Major actions in the arteries that can lead to heart attack and stroke include the accumulation of plaque and the narrowing, or hardening, of arteries. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, can be caused by various factors such as high blood glucose, infection, tobacco use, excessive blood lipids, and hypertension. The buildup of fatty, calcified deposits, and connective tissue within the artery wall forms the plaque, which occludes blood flow and reduces the vessels' compliance or flexibility.
If untreated, it can lead to ischemia, or restricted blood flow, resulting in insufficient oxygen, or hypoxia, to cells. Symptoms may include chest pain, or angina pectoris, but some individuals may be asymptomatic. If a plaque ruptures, it can cause micro-tears in the artery wall, leading to blood leakage and clot formation which can further obstruct the artery, causing a heart attack or stroke.
Learn more about Atherosclerosis