How common is medial calcific sclerosis?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Just under 7 percent of women and about 13 percent of men have some level of medial calcific sclerosis. Among diabetics, the prevalence is greater. Ninety-four percent of people who have had diabetes for more than three decades have arterial calcification.

Continue Learning about Arteriosclerosis

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Medial calcific sclerosis usually affects the inner walls of the arteries, particularly in the lower...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Medial calcific sclerosis causes calcium deposits to build up inside the walls of the arteries. Usua...

Richard Scherczinger, MD

Arterial occlusive disease or peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) results either from a...

Dr. Michael Roizen, MD

While most of us think of heart attacks and strokes when we think of arterial aging, these are j...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Arteriosclerosis

A common cause of heart attacks and strokes, arteriosclerosis causes a fatty substance to accumulate inside your arteries. Called plaque, the fatty substance hardens and narrows the arteries, which limits the amount of oxygenated blood that can get to your heart and the rest of your body. When blood is restricted, it can lead to chest pain, a heart attack and pain or numbness in the legs, arms and pelvis, a condition called peripheral arterial disease. The plaque can also rupture and lead to bleeding in the brain, which is medically known as a stroke. Doctors believe that the cells that line our arteries become damaged by high blood pressure, smoking or high cholesterol, which allows plaque to build up in the blood vessel. A family history of heart disease also increases your risk to develop this disease.

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