Definition: Condition in which there is thickening, hardening and loss of elasticity of the walls of the arteries. This can alter the functionality of the blood vessels and damage the organs they feed. Risk factors for development of this condition include, diabetes, high blood pressure, aging, high cholesterol, smoking and obesity.
Pronunciation: ar-te"re-o-skle-ro'sis
Also Known As: arteriosclerotic, hardening of the arteries
Common Misspellings: Arteriosclerosis
Examples: Mr. Smith has arteriosclerosis and is at high risk of heart attack.
