As with atherosclerosis, the risks associated with arteriosclerosis depend on what part of your body is affected. Among possible serious complications are stroke, coronary artery disease, gangrene of an arm or leg, aneurysm formation, and kidney failure.
Cigarette smokers are particularly at risk.
The older you are, the more likely you are to be severely affected by arteriosclerosis. The disease seems to run in families, and its effects are likely to be more serious if you have anemia, diabetes mellitus, or heart failure. If you think you have symptoms of arteriosclerosis, consult your physician, who, after examining you, may recommend that you have tests for blood cholesterol and diabetes. It is particularly important to quit if you smoke cigarettes. In addition, if your legs are affected, try to keep them as warm and dry as possible.