Causes Of Coronary Artery Plaque Formation

While some people never develop coronary artery plaque, others may show signs at a young age, largely due to lifestyle and environmental factors. Unhealthy habits such as smoking, combined with risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, lack of physical activity, and chronic stress can weaken the protective barrier of the blood vessel lining. When this happens, small gaps may form in the endothelium, making it easier for harmful substances to enter the vessel wall. This is often described as "diseases entering through the mouth," meaning that when the body's defenses are low, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can infiltrate the bloodstream and begin to accumulate.

How Plaque Develops in the Arteries

In a healthy individual, the inner lining of blood vessels is smooth and resistant to deposits. However, over time, various lifestyle and genetic factors can cause certain components of the blood—especially cholesterol—to stick to and build up within the vessel walls. The primary culprit is low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), often referred to as "bad cholesterol." During routine medical checkups, doctors typically order lipid profile tests to measure total cholesterol and LDL levels. These are key indicators that, when elevated, increase the risk of plaque formation.

The Role of LDL in Plaque Buildup

As LDL cholesterol penetrates the arterial wall, it begins to accumulate and form fatty deposits. Over time, these deposits grow and cause a bulge in the artery wall, eventually leading to narrowing of the vessel. This bulge is what medical professionals refer to as plaque. As plaque builds up, it restricts blood flow and increases the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

Coronary Plaque as a Sign of Systemic Atherosclerosis

Coronary artery plaque is not an isolated issue—it is often a symptom of a broader condition known as atherosclerosis. Patients diagnosed with plaque in their coronary arteries frequently show similar buildup in other major arteries throughout the body. These include the carotid arteries in the neck, the thoracic aorta, and the abdominal aorta. Detecting plaque in the coronary arteries can serve as an early warning sign that other vascular regions may also be affected, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive cardiovascular screening and preventive care.