Atherosclerosis develops when fatty material and other substances build up in the walls of arteries. This creates plaques that can narrow or stiffen the arteries and reduce blood flow. A plaque can also rupture and trigger a blood clot. The condition increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and peripheral arterial disease.
Symptoms
Atherosclerosis often causes no symptoms until blood flow has become significantly restricted or a complication occurs. Symptoms depend on which arteries are affected and may include chest pain, shortness of breath, pain in the legs during walking, unusual tiredness or weakness.
Risk factors
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High LDL cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Chronic kidney disease
- Overweight or obesity
- Older age and a family history of cardiovascular disease
Risk is assessed using factors such as age, blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking and medical history. Tests may include blood tests, an ECG or imaging, depending on symptoms and the arteries involved.
Prevention and treatment
Stopping smoking, eating a balanced diet, being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce cardiovascular risk. Blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose should be managed when raised. Prescribed treatment may include a statin, blood pressure medicine, diabetes treatment or medicine that reduces clot formation. Procedures or surgery may be needed when an artery is severely narrowed.
Do not start aspirin or another blood-thinning medicine for prevention unless a healthcare professional recommends it, because these medicines can cause serious bleeding.
When to seek urgent help
Call emergency services for pressure or severe pain in the chest, sudden breathlessness, facial drooping, weakness or numbness on one side, difficulty speaking, sudden confusion or sudden loss of vision. These may be signs of a heart attack or stroke.
Sources
Reviewed: 28 August 2026