Which term denotes thickening, loss of elasticity, and hardening of arterial walls?

• A. Arteriosclerosis
• B. Hypertension
• C. Hypotension
• D. Viscosity

Answer: (A)

Thickening, loss of elasticity, and hardening of arterial walls describe arteriosclerosis. This term covers the stiffening of arteries, which makes them less compliant and less able to expand with each heartbeat. That reduced elasticity can contribute to higher systolic pressure and overall changes in blood flow.

Hypertension is high blood pressure itself, not the wall changes. Hypotension is low blood pressure. Viscosity refers to how thick the blood is, not the arterial walls. So the description fits arteriosclerosis best.