What can excessive atherosclerosis lead to?

Excessive atherosclerosis primarily leads to coronary artery disease. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fatty deposits, plaques, and inflammation in the walls of arteries, which results in narrowing and hardening of these vessels. When this process occurs in the coronary arteries—those supplying blood to the heart muscle—it can significantly reduce blood flow, leading to ischemia (insufficient oxygen supply). This condition is what is termed coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery disease can further result in angina (chest pain), heart attacks, and other serious cardiovascular events. It is important to recognize that while other options might be associated with heart conditions, they are not directly caused by excessive atherosclerosis. Increased heart rate can occur in many situations but is not specific to atherosclerosis, mitral valve prolapse involves structural changes in the heart valve rather than arterial blockages, and atrial fibrillation is a rhythm disorder that may arise from various causes, including but not limited to structural heart changes, hypertension, or coronary artery disease itself.