Most cardiovascular disease starts with an atheroma formation.
The endothelium (inner layer of the artery) is usually smooth and unbroken.
When damage to the endothelium occurs, mainly due to high blood pressure, white blood cells and lipids from the blood clump together under the lining to form fatty streaks.
Over time more white blood cells, lipids and connective tissue build up and harden to form a fiberous plaque called an atheroma.
This plaque partially blocks the lumen, restricting blood flow and therefore increasing the pressure.
Atheromas increase the risk of aneurysm and thrombosis.
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