Causes Of Coronary Artery Plaque Formation

While some individuals never develop coronary artery plaque, others may experience it at a young age, largely due to lifestyle factors acquired over time. Unhealthy habits such as smoking, combined with risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, lack of physical activity, and chronic stress, can weaken the resilience of the vascular endothelium. These weakened areas create small gaps, allowing harmful substances to enter. As the saying goes, "diseases enter through the mouth," meaning that when our body's defenses are low, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can infiltrate the bloodstream and accumulate over time, leading to the formation of plaque.

How Plaque Develops in Blood Vessels

In a healthy individual, the inner lining of blood vessels is smooth and resistant to deposits. However, various factors throughout life can cause certain components of the blood to stick and build up on the vessel walls. The primary substance involved in this buildup is cholesterol—particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad cholesterol." During medical checkups, doctors typically order blood tests to measure lipid levels, including total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. These are the key indicators to monitor, as elevated levels can lead to serious cardiovascular issues.

The Role of LDL Cholesterol

When LDL cholesterol penetrates the vessel wall, it begins to accumulate, eventually forming a bump or protrusion known as plaque. As this plaque grows, it narrows the artery and restricts blood flow. This process is not limited to the coronary arteries alone—it is a systemic condition that affects arteries throughout the body.

Coronary Plaque as a Sign of Systemic Atherosclerosis

Coronary artery plaque is often an indicator of a broader condition known as atherosclerosis. Patients diagnosed with plaque in their coronary arteries frequently show similar plaque buildup in other major arteries, such as the carotid arteries in the neck, the thoracic aorta, and the abdominal aorta. This widespread plaque formation highlights the importance of addressing cardiovascular risk factors comprehensively to prevent further complications.