Final answer:
Atherosclerosis is the process by which fatty streaks on arterial walls evolve into fibrous, calcified plaques that can impair blood flow. It is associated with several risk factors including hypertension and high cholesterol, and treatments vary from lifestyle changes to surgical interventions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Atherosclerosis Formation
In the process of atherosclerosis, an initial fatty streak on the arterial wall evolves over time, forming a nidus for fibrin deposition, and eventually becomes a fibrous, calcified plaque. This condition occurs when artery walls become inflamed, and plaque builds up, often beginning as fatty "streaks" in young individuals and advancing throughout life. The arterial plaques consist of white blood cells, cholesterol, and other fats, with smooth muscle cells contributing to the fibrous nature of the plaque.
Over time, these plaques may harden with the addition of calcium crystals, reducing the elasticity of artery walls and narrowing the arterial lumen, potentially impairing blood flow. Risk factors for atherosclerosis include hypertension, high LDL cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking. Treatments may involve medication, diet and exercise modifications, angioplasty, stent insertion, or coronary bypass procedures.