Final answer:
Atherosclerosis is synonymous with the term 'hardening of the arteries', which describes the plaque buildup and subsequent stiffening and narrowing of arterial walls that impede blood flow.
Step-by-step explanation:
The synonym for atherosclerosis is hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is a condition where the artery walls become inflamed and plaque builds up. This plaque consists of cell debris, cholesterol, fatty substances, calcium, and connective tissue. The plaque buildup leads to the stiffening and narrowing of the artery, reducing blood flow and decreasing the artery's elasticity. Atherosclerosis is sometimes referred to directly as hardening of the arteries due to loss of compliance in the artery walls, constituting a specific type of arteriosclerosis. Over time, the plaques may harden with calcium deposits, exacerbating the rigidity of the arteries. Risk factors for atherosclerosis include age, high-fat diet, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and diabetes. This condition poses significant health threats, such as heart attacks or strokes, when it prevents proper blood circulation to the heart or brain.