What is arteriosclerosis?

Arteriosclerosis refers specifically to the hardening of the arteries, which is a significant condition affecting cardiovascular health. This occurs when the blood vessels lose their elasticity and become stiff due to the accumulation of plaque and other materials on the artery walls. This stiffening can lead to reduced blood flow and can increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

Understanding this condition is crucial because it emphasizes the importance of maintaining cardiovascular health through lifestyle choices and medical interventions. The other terms—such as inflammation of the middle ear, loss of central vision, and nearsightedness—refer to entirely different medical issues that do not relate to the condition of blood vessels or arteries. Each of those conditions affects different parts of the body, illustrating the broad spectrum of health conditions that can affect individuals.