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Atherosclerosis

Published: August 5, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, causing them to harden and narrow. This can lead to serious health problems such as heart attacks and strokes.

Quick summary

Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition that can cause narrowing and hardening of arteries.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
I70
ICD-11
BA00.0
Body system
cardiovascular
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Angina

Chest discomfort or palpitations

(cardiovascular)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Intermittent claudication

(cardiovascular)

Shortness of breath

(cardiovascular)

Erectile dysfunction

(cardiovascular)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Disease management and monitoring

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Structured Exercise and Weight Management

A comprehensive program combining regular aerobic exercise with calorie-controlled weight loss to reduce cardiovascular risk factors. This approach helps improve lipid profiles, reduce inflammation, and enhance endothelial function.

lifestyle
3

Heart-Healthy Mediterranean Diet

Adoption of a Mediterranean-style diet emphasizing omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats while limiting saturated and trans fats. This dietary pattern has demonstrated effectiveness in slowing atherosclerotic progression.

dietary

Additional treatment options

Lipid-Lowering Therapy

Pharmacological intervention using lipid-modifying agents to lower LDL cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular events. Treatment is typically long-term and requires regular lipid monitoring to assess efficacy.

medication

Cardiovascular Risk Assessment

Regular monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors including blood pressure, lipid panels, and inflammatory markers. Periodic imaging may be considered to assess plaque burden and disease progression.

monitoring

Coronary Angiography with Risk Assessment

Diagnostic imaging procedure to visualize coronary arteries and assess the extent of atherosclerotic disease. Results guide further treatment decisions including medical management versus revascularization.

procedure

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Atherosclerosis?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Virani SS, Alonso A, Aparicio HJ, et al. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2021 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2021.

guideline2021
2

Björkegren JLM, Lusis AJ. Atherosclerosis: Recent developments. Cell. 2022.

review2022
3

Khan SU, Khan MZ, Raghu Subratha C, et al. Impact of Statins on Progression of Atherosclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2020.

meta_analysis2020
4

Nakamura M, Kadokami T, Matsumoto M, et al. Effects of PCSK9 Inhibition on Coronary Atherosclerosis: The REVERSE-ATH Trial. N Engl J Med. 2023.

clinical_trial2023

Risk factors

Factors that raise the chance of developing this condition. Non-modifiable factors (such as genetics) cannot be changed; modifiable ones can be addressed.

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Smoking
Diabetes
Obesity

When to seek medical help

Seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or weakness in limbs.

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Atherosclerosis. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of atherosclerosis?
How is atherosclerosis diagnosed?
Can atherosclerosis be reversed?
What is the difference between atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis?
Are there any natural remedies for atherosclerosis?
  1. 1
    National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)Source
  2. 2
    American Heart Association (AHA)Source
  3. 3
    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Source

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy