Coronary Atherosclerosis is a commonly used medical term that refers to the hardening and narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart. It is pronounced /kɒˈrɒnəri ˌæθərəˈsklɛrəʊsɪs/, with the stress on the second syllable. The word "coronary" refers to the arteries that surround and supply blood to the heart muscle, while "atherosclerosis" describes the buildup of fatty plaques in the artery walls. Proper spelling of medical terms is crucial to ensure clear communication between healthcare professionals and patients.
Coronary Atherosclerosis is a medical condition characterized by the build-up of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances in the walls of the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscles.
The accumulation of these deposits, called plaques, gradually narrows and hardens the arteries, leading to a condition known as atherosclerosis. As a result, the heart muscles may not receive enough blood and oxygen, which can cause various symptoms, including chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and fatigue. In severe cases, coronary atherosclerosis can lead to a complete blockage of the arteries, resulting in a heart attack or myocardial infarction.
Several risk factors contribute to the development of coronary atherosclerosis, such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. The condition usually develops over many years and can progressively worsen, increasing the risk of heart disease and complications.
Coronary atherosclerosis can be diagnosed through various tests, including coronary angiography, stress tests, and electrocardiograms. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications such as adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and medication management to control blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other associated conditions. In some cases, invasive procedures such as angioplasty with stenting or coronary artery bypass surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow to the heart muscles. Long-term management and ongoing monitoring are crucial to prevent the progression of the disease and its associated complications.
The word coronary is derived from the Latin word corona, which means crown. The term refers to the arteries that encircle the heart, known as the coronary arteries. Atherosclerosis is also of Greek origin, combining athero (meaning gruel or paste) with sclerosis (meaning hardness). Atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by the formation of plaques within the arterial walls, which leads to a narrowing and hardening of the arteries. When this condition specifically affects the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, it is known as coronary atherosclerosis.