Atherosclerosis literally means “hardening of the arteries” and occurs as a result of thickening of the walls of an artery from a build up of fatty deposits. These fatty deposits are also known as plaques.

Atherosclerosis can occur in many different arteries, but when this occurs in the arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart, it is known as coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery disease may be present for decades without causing any symptoms or signs of the condition. A number of conditions can increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis: tobacco smoking, high blood cholesterol levels, high blood pressure (hypertension), and diabetes.

When plaque causes severe narrowing of a coronary artery, you might develop symptoms of angina. Coronary plaque can also lead to heart attack.