The Mayo Clinic defines atherosclerosis as the buildup of fats and plaque on the walls of the arteries, which clogs arteries and restricts the flow of blood.
Symptoms
Symptoms generally don't occur until the arteries are seriously clogged, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms include chest pain, weak or numb arms or legs, trouble speaking, drooping face muscles or leg pain.
How It Works
Clogged arteries begin with an injury to the inside of the artery wall. Blood cells congregate at the site, in an attempt to repair the injury, which leads to the artery becoming inflamed, says the Mayo Clinic. Then fatty deposits accumulate and harden, narrowing the artery.
Blood Clots
Pieces of the fatty deposits can break off and enter the bloodstream, forming a blood clot that can cause heart attacks.
Causes
Some of the causes of injury to the artery include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diseases such as diabetes, and nicotine, which irritates the artery.
Risk Factors
Two other factors that increase the risk of clogged arteries are obesity and a history of heart disease in the family.
Prevention/Solution
Mayo Clinic says that prevention lies in adopting a healthy lifestyle. The experts there recommend that you quit smoking, eat healthy, exercise regularly, stay at a normal weight and consume less alcohol.
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