Treatment of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to manage and slow the progression of this disease.

1. Reduce Risk Factors

One of the most important steps in treating atherosclerosis is addressing the underlying risk factors that contribute to its development. Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia significantly increase the likelihood of plaque buildup. Additionally, unhealthy lifestyle choices—including poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption—can accelerate the process. Managing these conditions through medication, lifestyle modifications, and regular medical checkups is essential for long-term health.

2. Antiplatelet Therapy

Antiplatelet medications play a crucial role in preventing blood clots from forming within narrowed arteries. Drugs such as aspirin and clopidogrel are commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of clot-related events like heart attacks and strokes. These medications help keep blood flowing smoothly through the arteries by preventing platelets from sticking together.

3. Cholesterol Management and Plaque Stabilization

Lowering cholesterol levels is a key component of atherosclerosis treatment. Statins are the most commonly used medications for this purpose, as they effectively reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and help stabilize existing arterial plaques. For most patients, the target LDL level should be below 2.6 mmol/L. However, in individuals who have experienced an acute myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke, more aggressive lipid-lowering is recommended, with an LDL goal of less than 1.8 mmol/L. Total cholesterol levels should also be maintained below 4.5 mmol/L to support cardiovascular health.

4. Interventional and Surgical Treatments

When atherosclerosis leads to significant blockages or blood clots, more invasive treatments may be necessary. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as angioplasty, may be performed to open blocked arteries, often with the placement of a stent to maintain blood flow. In more severe cases, vascular recanalization procedures may be required to restore circulation. For patients suffering from acute ischemic stroke, timely administration of thrombolytic drugs or mechanical thrombectomy with stent retrieval can be life-saving interventions.