Atherosclerosis, sometimes called “hardening of the arteries,” occurs when cholesterol, calcium, and other substances build up in the inner lining of the arteries, forming a material called plaque. Over time, plaque buildup narrows the artery and blocks blood flow through it.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | John A. McPherson, MD, FACC, FSCAI - Cardiology |
| Last Revised | May 1, 2010 |
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