Atherosclerosis is a condition in which arteries — the vessels that carry blood and oxygen throughout your body — become lined with plaque. This process begins as early as childhood and progresses as we age. Over time, plaque can narrow the arteries, limiting blood flow to the heart, brain and other parts of the body.

Many people are unaware that they have atherosclerosis since the symptoms associated with it may not show up until the artery has significantly narrowed and blood flow is greatly limited or blocked.

The symptoms of atherosclerosis vary widely and depend on the location of the narrowed artery.

For coronary arteries, symptoms might include angina (chest pain), arrhythmias, or shortness of breath. Blockage in these arteries could lead to a heart attack.

For carotid arteries, symptoms might include dizziness, confusion, or sudden headaches. Blockage in these arteries could lead to a stroke.

For arteries leading to the extremities, symptoms might include leg pain, cramping, and poor wound healing in the extremities.