Loss of vessel elasticity is termed arteriosclerosis, while fatty deposit build-up is termed atherosclerosis. The process is thought to begin early in life. Cigarette smoking is thought to be a causative factor. High blood pressure is thought to be a causative factor. Diabetes is thought to be a causative factor.
Obesity is thought to be a causative factor.
Atherosclerosis begins when white blood cells called monocytes migrate from the bloodstream into the wall of the artery and are transformed into cells that accumulate fatty materials. In time, these fat-laden monocytes accumulate, leading to a patchy thickening in the inner lining of the artery. Arteries affected with atherosclerosis lose their elasticity, and as the atheromas grow, the arteries narrow. With time, the atheromas collect calcium deposits, may become brittle, and may rupture. Blood may then enter a ruptured atheroma, making it larger, so that it narrows the artery even more.