sklerózis

Sklerózis is a medical term referring to the hardening or stiffening of tissues. It most commonly refers to arteriosclerosis, a condition affecting arteries. In arteriosclerosis, the artery walls become thickened and lose their elasticity. This can be due to a buildup of plaque, a fatty substance, within the arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. The narrowing of the arteries can restrict blood flow and increase blood pressure, leading to serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Other factors contributing to arteriosclerosis include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.

The term sklerózis can also be used in other contexts, such as in the hardening of other tissues like liver or brain tissue, often as a result of chronic inflammation or disease. However, when used without further specification, it typically implies vascular hardening. Medical professionals diagnose sklerózis through various methods, including physical examination, blood tests, and imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, or angiography. Treatment strategies focus on managing risk factors, lifestyle modifications, and medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to restore blood flow.