What is the condition commonly referred to as "hardening of the arteries"?

The condition commonly referred to as "hardening of the arteries" is arteriosclerosis. This term describes the thickening and stiffening of arterial walls, which can restrict blood flow to organs and tissues. It is a broad term that encompasses various types of artery changes, including those that lead to an increase in vascular resistance and decreased elasticity.

Arteriosclerosis can occur due to aging or other factors and is characterized by the hardening of arteries, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease by impacting the heart's ability to function efficiently. While atherosclerosis, often confused with arteriosclerosis, specifically refers to the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls, leading to plaque formation and blockage, it is a subtype of arteriosclerosis.

Atrial flutter and atrioventricular block are arrhythmias related to the heart’s electrical system and do not pertain to the structural changes in arteries. Thus, arteriosclerosis is the most accurate answer regarding the hardening of arteries.