How does arteriosclerosis affect the heart's function?

Arteriosclerosis affects the heart's function by reducing blood flow, leading to decreased oxygen supply to the heart muscle.

Arteriosclerosis is a condition characterised by the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. This is caused by the build-up of plaque, a substance made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, this plaque hardens and narrows the arteries, limiting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body.

The heart, being a muscle, requires a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function effectively. These are delivered to the heart muscle through the coronary arteries. When these arteries are affected by arteriosclerosis, the heart muscle may not receive enough oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to conditions such as angina (chest pain), heart attack, or heart failure.

In the early stages of arteriosclerosis, the heart tries to compensate for the reduced blood flow by increasing its workload. It may beat faster or pump harder to maintain an adequate blood flow. However, over time, this increased workload can weaken the heart and lead to heart failure, a condition where the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

Furthermore, the plaque in the arteries can rupture, leading to the formation of a blood clot. This clot can block the flow of blood through the coronary artery, causing a heart attack. If the blood supply to a part of the heart is blocked for a long period, that part of the heart muscle can die, leading to permanent damage.

In summary, arteriosclerosis can significantly affect the heart's function by reducing the blood flow to the heart muscle. This can lead to a range of heart conditions, including angina, heart attack, and heart failure.