What is the process called when arterial walls harden and lose elasticity?

The process of arterial walls hardening and losing elasticity is known as arteriosclerosis. This condition involves the thickening and stiffening of arterial walls, which can lead to reduced blood flow and increased blood pressure. It is an important cardiovascular concern as it can contribute to more serious conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.

In contrast, while coronary artery disease refers specifically to the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to plaque buildup, it is a result of atherosclerosis, which is a more specific type of arteriosclerosis characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits in the arterial walls. Myelitis, on the other hand, is an inflammatory condition affecting the spinal cord and is unrelated to arterial conditions. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify how arteriosclerosis serves as an underlying mechanism leading to various cardiovascular diseases.