The word "arteriosclerotic" refers to a condition in which arteries become hardened and less elastic, leading to impaired blood flow. The spelling of this word is based on its pronunciation, which can be broken down using IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) symbols. It is pronounced [ahr-teer-ee-oh-skleh-rot-ik], with a stress on the third syllable. The combination of the prefixes "arterio-" (referring to arteries) and "sclerotic" (meaning hardened or thickened) gives rise to this complicated yet crucial medical term for a condition that affects millions of people globally.
Arteriosclerotic is an adjective that refers to the condition of arteriosclerosis, which is a chronic disease characterized by the hardening and thickening of the arterial walls. It is derived from two words: "arterio," meaning artery, and "sclerotic," relating to the hardening or thickening of a tissue.
Arteriosclerosis occurs as a result of the accumulation of fatty deposits, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances in the arteries, forming plaques that narrow and harden the blood vessels. This condition leads to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to various organs and tissues throughout the body.
The term "arteriosclerotic" is typically used to describe the characteristics or effects of this disease. It can refer to the occurrence of arterial blockages or the presence of plaques that hinder normal blood circulation. Arteriosclerotic conditions are often associated with hypertension, high cholesterol levels, obesity, smoking, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Symptoms of arteriosclerotic diseases may vary depending on the affected arteries and organs, but can include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, leg pain during physical activity, and cognitive impairment. Severe forms of arteriosclerosis can lead to life-threatening conditions such as heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease.
Medical intervention and lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and quitting smoking, are commonly recommended to prevent or slow down the progression of arteriosclerotic diseases. Treatment may also involve medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood clot formation.
Relating to or affected by arteriosclerosis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "arteriosclerotic" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "arterio" and "sclerosis".
The Greek word "arterio" (ἀρτηρία in Greek) refers to an artery, which is a blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to different parts of the body.
The Greek word "sclerosis" (σκληρός in Greek) means hardening or induration. It is also used in medical terminology to describe the thickening or hardening of body tissues or organs.
When these two roots are combined, "arterio-" meaning artery and "-sclerosis" meaning hardening, the term "arteriosclerosis" is formed. Arteriosclerosis is a medical condition characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of plaque and other substances on their inner walls.