Treating Atherosclerosis

Posted: May 1, 2004

If atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries due to buildup of fatty deposits) leads to symptoms, the symptoms can be treated. Medicines are usually the first step in treating vascular diseases. Other treatments include angioplasty procedures to open up clogged arteries and surgery.

If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high blood cholesterol, these conditions can be treated as well. Lowering your blood cholesterol level can slow, stop, or even reverse the buildup of plaque. Cholesterol lowering can reduce the cholesterol content in unstable plaques to make them more stable and less prone to rupture.

One of the most important ways to have healthier arteries is to make lifestyle changes. If you have high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes, follow your treatment plan.

Can I prevent or reverse atherosclerosis?
Yes. You can't do anything about your genes, your gender or your age, but you can adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Maintain a healthy weight and avoid weight gain as you get older.

Get plenty of regular exercise – at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.

Eat a healthy diet low in saturated fat and rich in fruits and vegetables.

If you have high blood cholesterol or high blood pressure, you may need medicine to help lower it. Stick to your treatment plan.

If you have diabetes, follow your treatment plan.

If you smoke, stop.

If stress is a problem, find ways to reduce or control it.

Talk to your health care provider about what you can do to lower your risks for atherosclerosis and vascular disease.

Source: Office on Women's Health in the Department of Health and Human Services

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