Causes
Atherosclerosis Causes TAA
Researchers believe that atherosclerosis -- hardening of the arteries -- causes TAA. Your arteries are normally smooth and unobstructed on the inside but, with age, they can become blocked. This is atherosclerosis. A sticky substance called plaque builds up in the artery walls, causing the arteries to narrow over time and, possibly, to weaken.
Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis
The risk for atherosclerosis increases with:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- A family history of cardiovascular or peripheral vascular disease (a narrowing of the blood vessels)
