Atherosclerosis vs. Arteriosclerosis: What You Need to Know

Introduction 

Heart health is something we often take for granted—until something goes wrong.  

You may have heard the terms atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing.  

Understanding their differences can help you take better care of your heart and circulation. In simple terms, arteriosclerosis is the general hardening of arteries, while atherosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis caused by plaque buildup.  

Both conditions can lead to serious health problems, including heart attacks and strokes. 

So, how do they differ? What are the symptoms? Most importantly, how can you prevent them? Let’s break it all down in a way that’s easy to understand.  

Atherosclerosis vs Arteriosclerosis Prevention

What Is Arteriosclerosis? 

Arteriosclerosis is a broad term for the thickening and stiffening of arteries. Your arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from your heart to the rest of your body. When they become less flexible, blood flow can be restricted, leading to various health complications. 

Causes of Arteriosclerosis 

Several factors contribute to this condition, including: 

As arteries lose their flexibility, they become more prone to blockages, increasing the risk of heart disease and strokes. 

What Is Atherosclerosis? 

While arteriosclerosis refers to general hardening, atherosclerosis is a more specific and dangerous condition. It happens when plaque—a mix of cholesterol, fats, and other substances—builds up inside the arteries, causing them to narrow. 

How Plaque Affects Your Arteries 

Over time, plaque buildup can: 

Atherosclerosis doesn’t happen overnight. It develops gradually, often without symptoms, until a serious event like a heart attack occurs. 

How Are They Different? 

You might still be wondering: Aren’t these the same thing? Not quite. While both conditions affect the arteries, they have some key differences.