1. Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Change the way you eat in order to treat atherosclerosis, a disease in which plaque made up of fat and cholesterol coats the walls of your arteries and blocks the blood flow. Cut out fatty foods, including many processed foods, and eat fresher, lower-fat choices that can lower high cholesterol levels. Limit the amount of salt you consume by checking the sodium content on packaged foods. A lower-salt diet can help stabilize blood-pressure levels. In addition to reducing the amount of fat in your diet, start to exercise more frequently and more regularly. If you're heavy, losing weight can play a huge role in reducing your risk of atherosclerosis and reversing its effects.
2. Take Medication
Lifestyle changes may not be enough if you're still at risk of heart disease. This is when you and your doctor should discuss the pros and cons of taking medication to treat your atherosclerosis. Cholesterol medications (mainly statin drugs) can help treat your condition when used in combination with a healthy diet and daily exercise. Blood clots are another dangerous medical issue that can be life-threatening, and blood thinners prevent blood clots from forming. Put together a list of all the medications you currently take, as well as any drug allergies you have. Bring the list to your next appointment so that you and your doctor can decide what medication will benefit you the most.
3. Remove Plaque Surgically
An endarterectomy removes plaque from your arteries if all other treatments fail and your health is in immediate danger. Your surgeon will keep your artery open with a stent and re-route the blood flow while he moves the piece of hardened plaque that is blocking the way. An endarterectomy is an effective but temporary treatment method, because the plaque can build back up over time. You will still need to take care of your body through exercise and a reasonable diet to prevent future problems.
