How is atherosclerosis treated?

How is atherosclerosis treated?

Treatment for atherosclerosis may involve lifestyle changes, medications and surgical procedures. Your healthcare provider will work with you to choose the best options. Common treatment goals include:

• Lowering your risk of blood clots.
• Helping you make healthier food choices.
• Preventing complications like heart attack or stroke.
• Easing symptoms that are bothering you.
• Slowing or stopping plaque buildup in your arteries.
• Helping your blood flow better by widening your arteries or bypassing blockages.

Your healthcare provider also may prescribe medications to:

• Control your blood pressure.
• Lower your cholesterol.
• Manage your blood glucose levels.
• Prevent blood clots.

Some people with advanced atherosclerosis might require surgical procedures, such as:

• Coronary angioplasty.
• Coronary artery bypass surgery.
• Carotid endarterectomy.