Plaque in the Arteries Is a Warning Sign! These Two Locations Are the Most Dangerous

May 04, 2025 | 0 comments posted by Nature Target

With the accelerating pace of life and changing lifestyles, the incidence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases has been rising year by year. As a result, more and more people are paying attention to vascular health. Among medical checkup results, the word “plaque” often raises concern and anxiety. The formation of vascular plaque does not happen overnight—it is usually the result of aging and long-term unhealthy habits. So, what exactly does vascular plaque indicate? Which parts of the body are most dangerous when plaque develops? And how can it be prevented and managed? This article provides a comprehensive overview of vascular plaque and its health implications.

Plaque in These Two Areas Is Especially Dangerous

The formation of plaque is a sign of arterial aging and a natural part of the body’s aging process—similar to how limescale builds up in pipes over time. As we age, arteries gradually harden and may develop plaque or even become narrowed. When plaque occurs in the following two areas, it poses particular risk:

Coronary Arteries

The coronary arteries supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients. If these vessels become narrowed due to plaque buildup, the heart may not receive adequate blood flow. This can impair heart function and significantly increase the risk of blood clots and heart attacks.

Carotid Arteries

Plaque in the carotid arteries can narrow the vessel lumen, reducing blood flow to the brain. This may lead to cerebral ischemia, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness and temporary blackouts. In severe cases, it can cause a stroke. If a plaque ruptures suddenly, it may block the local artery or break off and travel to distant vessels, leading to embolism and conditions like stroke.

How to Assess the Risk

Plaques that cause significant narrowing or are soft and prone to rupture are more dangerous and require close monitoring.
Small, stable plaques that do not significantly narrow the vessel or alter blood flow are generally less concerning. Regular checkups and good control of risk factors are sufficient, without undue worry.

Causes of Vascular Plaque Formation

The development of plaque is influenced by both genetic and lifestyle-related (acquired) factors.

Genetic (Congenital) Factors

Genetics play a key role. Individuals with a family history of severe atherosclerotic diseases—such as heart attack or stroke—are more likely to develop cardiovascular conditions themselves. They should undergo regular, targeted cardiovascular screenings.

Acquired (Lifestyle) Factors

Unhealthy diet: Excessive intake of salt and fats can lead to thicker, more viscous blood, which increases the likelihood of plaque formation.
Smoking: Smoking damages vascular endothelial cells, promotes platelet aggregation and inflammation, and accelerates lipid deposition—all of which contribute to plaque development. It is a major risk factor for carotid artery stenosis.
Obesity: Obesity is associated with conditions like hypertension and diabetes, both of which are linked to increased plaque formation.
Chronic conditions: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes are closely related to plaque development and vascular narrowing.
Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise leads to poor metabolism of consumed nutrients, making it easier for plaque to build up in the body.

Controlling Cholesterol Can Reverse Plaque

Some international studies have shown that effective lipid-lowering treatment, combined with lifestyle changes, can help stabilize plaques. In some patients, these interventions have even led to a measurable reduction in plaque size.

While plaque reversal is possible in certain individuals, the process is influenced by many factors and remains a subject of ongoing research. Nonetheless, managing cholesterol—particularly lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol—plays a crucial role in vascular health.

FAQs about Vascular Plaque

What is Vascular Plaque?

Vascular plaque is a buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the walls of arteries. This buildup, called plaque, can narrow the arteries and restrict blood flow. In some cases, the plaque may rupture, which can trigger the formation of a blood clot and potentially lead to serious health problems like heart attacks or strokes.

How do You Get Rid of Vascular Plaque?

To reduce or remove vascular plaque, a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures may be necessary. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing stress can help slow plaque buildup. Doctors may also prescribe cholesterol-lowering or blood pressure medications. In more serious cases, procedures like angioplasty or surgery may be required to restore proper blood flow.

Can Exercise Remove Plaque From Arteries?

Although exercise can't clear existing plaque from clogged arteries, it can help prevent further accumulation by improving overall cardiovascular health. Regular physical activity lowers blood pressure, reduces bad cholesterol (LDL), raises good cholesterol (HDL), and enhances blood circulation, all of which reduce the risk of more plaque building up.

What Vitamin Clears Plaque From Arteries?

Vitamin K2 is believed to help clear plaque from arteries by directing calcium away from the blood vessels and into the bones, where it is needed. This action helps prevent the buildup of calcium in the arterial walls, which is a key contributor to plaque formation and arterial stiffness.