Final answer:
Another term for arteriosclerosis is 'arterial hardening,' referring to the general loss of arterial compliance, while atherosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis involving plaque buildup inside the artery walls.
Step-by-step explanation:
Another Term for Arteriosclerosis
Another term for arteriosclerosis is arterial hardening. Arteriosclerosis refers to the generalized loss of arterial compliance, or the "hardening of the arteries." A more specific condition under this category is atherosclerosis, characterized by the buildup of plaque within the artery walls. This plaque accumulation consists of cell debris, cholesterol, and other substances, which can eventually lead to serious health risks such as a heart attack or stroke when it prevents proper blood circulation.
Common risk factors contributing to both arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis include advanced age, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and tobacco use. Atherosclerosis, in particular, can begin with injury to the artery's endothelium, and is exacerbated by high blood pressure that stresses the artery walls.