Systemic Conditions & Therapies

Atherosclerosis

Two things that can happen where plaque happens are: Atherosclerosis is a disease in which plaque develops inside your arteries. Arteries are veins that convey oxygen-rich blood to your heart and different parts of your body.

Plaque is comprised of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and different components found in the blood. Over time, plaque solidifies and narrows your arteries. This restrains the stream of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body.

A bit of the plaque may break off.

A thrombus may form on the plaque's surface.

If either of these occurs and blocks the artery, a heart attack or stroke may result.