What can be done to reverse plaque build-up?

[medgrl31]

From what I understand, plaque can begin to accumulate from childhood.  As a child, I was spoiled through treats and dining out.  Being from the south our diners were cooked by the motto that gravy and bacon made everything taste better.  

What can be done to reverse plague that has build up for 30 something years?  Other than exercise and diet, is there any kind of treatment, medication, "super-food" (the fad of the day it seems) that will do the trick?  What does one do when exercise causes chest pain and sob?

[denistd]

A related discussion, Carotid surgery was started.

[Lee Kirksey, MD]

Have your husband evaluated by his surgeon. He may have some inflammation of his laryngeal nerve following the operation. In most cases, this usually resolves with time.

[crna2b]

is your husband taking an ace inhibitor?  ace inhibitors can cause a dry cough as a side effect.  

the following was obtained at wikipedia

ACE inhibitors can be divided into three groups based on their molecular structure:


Sulfhydryl-containing agents
Captopril (trade name Capoten), the first ACE inhibitor
Zofenopril

Dicarboxylate-containing agents
This is the largest group, including:

Enalapril (Vasotec/Renitec)
Ramipril (Altace/Tritace/Ramace/Ramiwin)
Quinapril (Accupril)
Perindopril (Coversyl/Aceon)
Lisinopril (Lisodur/Lopril/Novatec/Prinivil/Zestril)
Benazepril (Lotensin)

Phosphonate-containing agents
Fosinopril (Monopril), the only member

[lulu060258]

My husband had an carotid endarterectomy a month ago.  He has a cough now everytime he lies down.  The cough is dry and unproductive.  Lately the cough at night causes him to feel like he is gagging or choking but when he sits up to cough he only gags and coughs and there is no sputum.  Last night he said this happened six times.  He is not nauseated but sometimes his stomach hurts.  

[Lee Kirksey, MD]

Hello
You are correct that medical studies show the beginning of "fatty streaks" within blood vessels at an early age in some people.
It is true that fat makes any meal taste better

there is currently no "miracle drug or herb" that can reverse plaque buildup. Some studies have shown that a very low fat diet with a daily total fat intake of less than 30 gms and sat fat less than 12 gm can promote slowing of the atherosclerotic process.

The problem is that most people cannot adhere to this aggressive regimen. But it can be beneficial if undertaken.

Some patient with angina note that they are able to exert themselves in the water and take up water exercises.

Most important, consult with your doctor to see what strategy is suitable for you. And make sure that you have had appropriate tests to evaluate your risk for heart attack and stroke. Good luck