Artery Damage and Plaque Growth

A report says plaque growth "happens when there is damage to the arteries." The sentence is short, but the wording around it is not. Take it one claim at a time.

The statement as published

The publisher medlineplus.gov writes: "The exact cause is unknown, but researchers believe that this buildup happens when there is damage to the arteries." The buildup meant here is the plaque growth in this page's title. Two claims sit in the sentence. The exact cause is unknown. Researchers believe damage to the arteries comes first.

What each claim asks of you

Unknown means the source names no exact cause, so do not look for one in your report. Believe is the source's own word. Read the second claim as a working view and not a settled fact.

For wider background, read the MedlinePlus entry on atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis and the NHLBI, NIH page on what atherosclerosis is beside your report.

Two pages from the vein shelf

Two more pages sit on the same reading list. They are sclerotherapy treatment and recovery and spider veins causes, symptoms and treatment. Neither answers the plaque question, so come back here for that.

The shortest version

The exact cause is unknown, and researchers believe artery damage comes first. Ask the clinician what your report means by damage, and bring the page you marked.