What Are the Treatments for Calcified Arteries in the Heart?
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Identification
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"Calcification of the coronary arteries is a late effect of atherosclerosis," according to Dr. David Stewart of the Providence Everett Heart and Vascular Institute, who says the amount of calcium seen “is a fairly good measure of the amount of atherosclerosis present."
Atherosclerosis
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Atherosclerosis is a buildup of fat and cholesterol that clogs the lining of arteries leading to the heart. As the arteries harden, calcification develops, contributing to heart attack and stroke.
Prevention/Solution
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Your doctor may suggest limiting consumption of fat and cholesterol, quitting smoking and exercising regularly. Omega-3 fatty acids, contained in fish oil, help lower cholesterol.
Medication
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A doctor will likely prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications called statins. "Aggressively lowering your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the ‘bad’ cholesterol, can slow, stop or even reverse the buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries," says the Mayo Clinic.
Surgery
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Calcified arteries in the heart also may be treated with stenting and angioplasty, typically implemented simultaneously to help re-open atherosclerotic arteries. In cases of advanced disease, a coronary bypass operation may be necessary.
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