What does arteriosclerosis refer to?

Arteriosclerosis refers specifically to the abnormal hardening of artery walls. This condition can lead to a decrease in elasticity of the arteries, resulting in restricted blood flow and increased blood pressure. When arterial walls harden, they can also lead to the development of plaques, which further contribute to cardiovascular issues such as heart attacks and strokes.

Understanding this concept is crucial for recognizing the implications of arteriosclerosis in relation to vascular health, as it is a significant factor in various cardiovascular diseases. The other choices highlight different conditions that do not accurately describe arteriosclerosis; for instance, the thinning of arterial walls is related to other medical issues, while inflammation of blood vessels pertains to different vascular conditions, and the expansion of the artery lumen is not characteristic of arteriosclerosis.