Can a Heart Blockage be Reversed?

When arteries leading to the heart are clogged, the most important muscle in the body is deprived of crucial oxygen and blood. A heart blockage can be reversed through simple changes and more complex medical procedures.

Identification

• Heart blockage typically refers to coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition where blood flow to the heart is restricted due to arteries that are clogged with an accumulation of fat called plaque.

Considerations

• This condition is known as atherosclerosis. Can a heart blockage be reversed? Yes, if the individual is dedicated to developing a healthier lifestyle and diet, utilizing medications and, if necessary, undergoing medical procedures.

Prevention/Solution

• Reducing the consumption of fat, cholesterol, and sodium is paramount in reversing clogged arteries, as are an increase in exercise and stopping smoking. For some patients, making such lifestyle changes may be the only necessary treatment.

Prescriptions

• Medications to help reverse CAD focus on statins to lower cholesterol, anticoagulants and blood thinners to assist with blood flow, and prescriptions for the maintenance of healthy blood pressure.

Surgery

• Angioplasty, stenting, and bypass surgery are operations to reverse CAD. "These procedures increase blood supply to your heart but they are not a cure for coronary artery disease," says the Cleveland Clinic. "You will still need to focus on reducing your risk factors to prevent or reduce future disease."