Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to the buildup of plaque, a substance made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other materials. Plaque can restrict blood flow to the heart, brain, and other organs, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious health problems. Checking for atherosclerosis is important for identifying and managing this condition.
There are several methods used to check for atherosclerosis. One common method is a physical examination, during which a doctor will listen to your heart and blood vessels for any unusual sounds, such as a bruit, which can indicate a narrowing of the arteries. Another method is blood tests, which can measure the levels of cholesterol and other substances in your blood that can contribute to atherosclerosis. Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI scans, can also be used to visualize the arteries and check for plaque buildup.
