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  • male
  • 60 Years
  • 31/03/2021

Can Atherosclerosis be reversed?

Doctor 1

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Various drugs, low fat diet and exercise can slow the effect of atherosclerosis but once a plaque is formed it is mostly not reversible. A person ahs to undergo procedures for removal of atherosclerotic plaque.

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Consult a Cardiologist

Answered 04/07/2025

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  1. Understanding Atherosclerosis
    Atherosclerosis is the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup. It can lead to heart disease, especially in older adults.

  2. Possibility of Reversal
    Complete reversal is difficult, but progression can be slowed or partially improved with treatment.

  3. Lifestyle Modifications

    • Diet: Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
    • Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity.
    • Smoking Cessation: Quit smoking to improve vascular health.
    • Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight.
  4. Medications
    Common medications include statins (e.g., Atorvastatin) for cholesterol and antihypertensives for blood pressure control.

  5. Medical Procedures
    In advanced cases, interventions like angioplasty or surgery may be necessary.

  6. Regular Monitoring and Specialist Care
    Regular check-ups with a cardiologist and relevant tests are crucial for monitoring the disease.

  7. Personalized Approach for Older Adults
    Considerations for a 60-year-old male include managing other health conditions and monitoring medication side effects.

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Consult a Cardiologist

Answered 20/08/2025

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I've noticed my resting heart rate has been a bit higher than usual, usually between 90 and 110. Sometimes it goes over 100, although not too often. I'm wondering if this is normal or if I should be concerned? I had an ECHO last month, and it was normal. At what point should I think about this as potentially dangerous arrhythmia?

An arrhythmia can be dangerous if it leads to symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, dizziness, or shortness of breath. The frequency of arrhythmia that could be considered dangerous varies depending on the type and underlying cause. In your case, with a resting heart rate consistently between 90-110 and occasionally above 100, it is advisable to monitor it closely. Since your ECHO was normal last month, it is reassuring that there are no structural abnormalities with your heart. However, given the increased resting heart rate, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. In the meantime, you can consider taking a beta-blocker medication like Metoprolol at a low dose of 25mg once daily to help control your heart rate.

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I'm a bit concerned because my recent ECG report mentioned LVH. I'm not sure if this is something I need to be really worried about. I don't smoke, but sometimes I get pain in my left thigh, and I've been having some stress-related chest discomfort due to work. Should I start treatment right away for LVH, and are there any specific precautions I should be taking?

LVH, or left ventricular hypertrophy, is a condition where the muscle of the left ventricle of the heart becomes thickened. It can be a serious issue if left untreated, as it can increase the risk of heart problems such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and heart attacks. In your case, it is important to address the underlying causes of LVH. Since you have mentioned occasional pain in your left thigh and stress-related chest discomfort, it is crucial to manage these symptoms and reduce stress levels to prevent further complications. Treatment for LVH may include medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, or calcium channel blockers to help reduce the workload on the heart. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, managing stress, and avoiding smoking are also important in managing LVH. It is recommended to follow up with a cardiologist for further evaluation and to discuss the appropriate treatment plan based on your individual health status and risk factors.

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I'm having this weird throbbing pain in my chest that feels like getting punched, but it only lasts a few seconds and then disappears. It pops up unexpectedly and can be on the left, right, or center of my chestnot in one specific spot. It doesn't happen when I'm exercising, but when it hits, it's in this tiny area that I could touch with a finger. I've had an ECG and three 2D echo tests, and all the results look fine according to the doctors. I'm really confused about what's causing this. Any idea on what might be going on?

It sounds like you may be experiencing episodes of chest pain known as angina. Angina is often described as a squeezing, pressure, heaviness, tightness, or pain in your chest. It can be caused by reduced blood flow to your heart muscle, which is usually due to coronary artery disease. Since your ECG and 2D echoes have come back normal, it is good news that there is no immediate concern for heart-related issues. However, it is still important to investigate further to determine the cause of your chest pain. I recommend discussing with your doctor about the possibility of undergoing a stress test to evaluate your heart's function under stress. Additionally, you may benefit from a CT coronary angiography to assess the blood flow in your coronary arteries. In the meantime, to help manage your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications such as nitroglycerin to relieve chest pain. It is important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor. Remember to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management of your chest pain.

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Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.