Angioplasty(Stress Testing)

Dear CCHC,
Approximately 10 years ago I had an angiolplasty on my LAD because of a 95% blockage.  At the time of the angioplasty the cardiologist noted two other less significant blockages of 30%.  Each year since the angioplasty I have had a thallium or more recently a Cardiolite Stress Test to check the progression of the lesions.  Each annual stress test has indicated normal and similar results.  My daily medications consist of Lipitor, Tenormin, Vasotec, Hydrodiuril, Imdur, and Aspirin.  I exercise daily and am on somewhat of a vegan diet.  Since nuclear stress testing will only show blockages of approximately 70% or greater are annual tests of this kind sufficient to show the progression of lesions?  Also, in general how long does it take for plaque to build up?  I am presently 62 years of age.
Thanks - Cody

[Cleveland Clinic]

cody,

Great questions.  Unfortunately, knowing you have coronary blockages beyond the severe one probably weighs pretty heavy on the mind.  

Truthfully, there is no right answer to your question.  The build up of plaque in the arteries is a lifelong process that begins very early. There are multiple factors that contribute to the rate of progression.  The hope is by modifying the factors that we know can impact the rate of progression that we can delay or slow the rate of progression of the blockages. In some people, modification of these factors can have significant impact while less in others. Believe it or not, its not even the most severe blockages that can cause the most problems. The overall goal of your therapy is to stop or slow all progression
and by following ymarkers such as lipids and CRP it is possible to monitor the effectiveness of therapy.

For now, I would try not to focus on the specifics of how fast your blockages are progressing and try to focus on those factors that can keep your disease from progressing. Your yearly stress test are an effective way tos help monitor progression of blockages in the absence of symptoms.

good luck

[Erik36]

The combination of your diet and the medicines you are taking may stop the progression of the blockages altogether. At the very least it should slow down the progression.

Good luck!

Erik