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What is atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, is a natural process
that occurs with aging. We now know that the process starts in childhood, and the
"plaque" gradually progresses over time. Made up mostly of cholesterol, the
plaques contribute to heart attacks, strokes, and claudication (or leg pain with
exercise).
One way to slow down the growth of these plaques is to control your
cholesterol levels. Some studies have shown that you can even lessen the plaques in your
arteries if you reduce your cholesterol levels. Diet is one method of achieving this, but
often cholesterol-lowering medications are necessary.
Knowing your cholesterol levels is important. Your health care provider
can help you determine if your cholesterol is too high.
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