What major risks are associated with atherosclerosis?

What major risks are associated with atherosclerosis?

• A. Colds and flu
• B. Skin rashes
• C. Joint pain
• D. Heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, or blood clot

Answer: (D)

Atherosclerosis causes arteries to become narrowed and the vessel walls to weaken from plaque buildup, which sets the stage for serious cardiovascular events. The major risks tied to this condition are heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, or a blood clot. A heart attack occurs when a coronary artery is blocked by a ruptured plaque or a clot, cutting off blood and oxygen to part of the heart. A stroke happens when a cerebral artery is blocked, leading to brain tissue damage. An aneurysm can form when the artery wall weakens and bulges; if it ruptures, it can cause life‑threatening bleeding. A blood clot can develop on a plaque or in narrowed arteries and may travel to block other vessels, causing ischemia elsewhere. Infections like colds, skin issues, or joint pains are not direct major risks of atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis causes arteries to become narrowed and the vessel walls to weaken from plaque buildup, which sets the stage for serious cardiovascular events. The major risks tied to this condition are heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, or a blood clot. A heart attack occurs when a coronary artery is blocked by a ruptured plaque or a clot, cutting off blood and oxygen to part of the heart. A stroke happens when a cerebral artery is blocked, leading to brain tissue damage. An aneurysm can form when the artery wall weakens and bulges; if it ruptures, it can cause life‑threatening bleeding. A blood clot can develop on a plaque or in narrowed arteries and may travel to block other vessels, causing ischemia elsewhere. Infections like colds, skin issues, or joint pains are not direct major risks of atherosclerosis.