Heart & Vascular:

Conditions

Coronary Atherosclerosis

Coronary atherosclerosis is a progressive condition in which plaque (fatty deposits, cholesterol and other substances) builds up in the lining of the coronary arteries and hardens. As the vessel wall thickens, the artery narrows and reduces the flow of blood to the heart muscle. In addition, blood clots can also form on the surface of the plaque, further narrowing the artery or closing it completely, causing a heart attack or stroke.