Which description best matches arteriosclerosis?

• A. Fatty plaque in arteries
• B. Diminished circulation due to venous valves
• C. Hardening and loss of elasticity of arterial walls
• D. Inflammation of arteries

Answer: (C)

Arteriosclerosis is the process of arteries becoming hard and less stretchy. This hardening means the vessel walls lose their elasticity and become less compliant, often due to buildup of connective tissue and calcium. That change raises pulse pressure and makes it harder for the heart to pump blood, increasing cardiovascular risk. The description of hardening and loss of elasticity of arterial walls matches this overall arterial change. By contrast, fat-laden plaques describe atherosclerosis, which is a related but more specific process that narrows the artery lumen; the other options describe venous issues or inflammatory arterial conditions, not the general stiffening of arteries.