Atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by the deposition of cholesterol in artery walls, leading to the narrowing of the lumen and high blood pressure. This can eventually lead to heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. The following are the details of atherosclerosis:

Causes of Atherosclerosis:
- The exact cause of atherosclerosis is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
- Risk factors for atherosclerosis include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Pathophysiology of Atherosclerosis:
- Atherosclerosis begins with damage to the inner lining of arteries, called the endothelium.
- This damage can be caused by high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, and other factors.
- Once the endothelium is damaged, cholesterol and other substances can enter the arterial wall and form plaques.
- Over time, these plaques can grow and narrow the lumen of the artery, reducing blood flow and increasing blood pressure.

Symptoms of Atherosclerosis:
- Atherosclerosis often has no symptoms until it causes a major cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke.
- Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea.
- Symptoms of a stroke include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and vision problems.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Atherosclerosis:
- Atherosclerosis can be diagnosed through a variety of tests, including blood tests, imaging studies, and cardiac catheterization.
- Treatment of atherosclerosis typically involves lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet.
- Medications, such as statins and blood pressure-lowering drugs, may also be prescribed.
- In severe cases, procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow to the affected areas.