What is the primary characteristic of arteriosclerosis?

The primary characteristic of arteriosclerosis is a loss of arterial elasticity. This condition involves the thickening and hardening of arterial walls, which diminishes their ability to expand and contract in response to blood flow. As the arteries become stiffer, they are less able to accommodate the pulsatile flow of blood with each heartbeat, leading to an increase in blood pressure and the workload on the heart.

Understanding the nature of arteriosclerosis is crucial since its implications can lead to more serious cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes. The loss of elasticity is a key feature that differentiates arteriosclerosis from other conditions involving blood vessels, as it directly affects circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

The other options focus on different conditions or physiological changes that do not encapsulate the fundamental essence of arteriosclerosis, which is primarily associated with changes in the elasticity and structural integrity of the arterial walls.