Final answer:
An aneurysm is an abnormal dilation of an artery involving its entire wall, often related to atherosclerosis, which causes artery walls to thicken and stiffen due to plaque buildup. Elastic arteries near the heart are designed to expand and recoil, a capacity compromised by atherosclerosis. Treatment for atherosclerosis can involve medication and lifestyle changes to manage the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
An aneurysm is an abnormal dilation of an artery that involves all layers of the arterial wall. Atherosclerosis is a related condition in which artery walls thicken and stiffen as a result of the buildup of plaques inside the arteries. These plaques consist of white blood cells, cholesterol, and other fats. Over time, plaques may harden due to the addition of calcium crystals, which reduces the elasticity of the artery walls and can lead to aneurysms if the pressure causes the weakened arterial walls to dilate excessively. As a result of atherosclerosis, arteries can lose their capability to expand and recoil, which is critical for maintaining blood pressure and flow. Without this flexibility, blood flow through the artery can be reduced or even blocked entirely, leading to increased risk of aneurysms or other cardiovascular events.
Arteries are blood vessels that conduct blood away from the heart and have thick walls to withstand high blood pressure. Elastic arteries, which are close to the heart, contain a high percentage of elastic fibers, allowing them to expand and recoil with each heartbeat. However, in the case of atherosclerosis, the artery walls can no longer adjust properly, leading to compromised blood flow and potentially serious health complications.
Risk factors for atherosclerosis include smoking, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, high alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, stress, and hyperlipidemia. Treatment options may include medication, dietary changes, exercise, angioplasty with a balloon catheter, stent insertion, or a coronary bypass procedure.