Carotid bruit

[judiann2448]

I am a 47yo female, I had doppler ultrasound of carotid artery, found <50% artery thickening, no plaque found, cholesterol 161, HDL 53.  Also have MVP with moderate regurgitation and hypothyroidism.  Exercise very regularly, non smoker, occasional glass of wine.  Healthy eating habits and weight.  Family history of atherosclerosis, father died of heart attack at 54yo (very unhealthy lifestyle).  Blood pressure usually 100/60, occasional palpitations.  Meds: synthroid, inderal, aspirin.  Is there anything else I can do to stay healthy or am I predestined for heart disease or stroke?  

[Cleveland Clinic]

The thickening does not seem to be atherosclerotic in nature based on your description.  It is part of the aging process, however, should be followed with a yearly ultrasound to look for progression.  If your next US shows progression, starting statin therapy may be indicated.

[Cleveland Clinic]

You blood pressure and cholesterol are under good control.  I am assuming that you do not have diabetes.  You have some family history, which unfortunately, can't be modified.  The fact that you exercise, don't smoke and eat a healthy diet are all good and you should keep up with them.  Make sure you have someone follow your MVP and keep taking the synthroid for the hypothyroidism.  I am assuming that the inderal is for palpitations from MVP and the ASA is for pure prophylaxis.  I think you are in good shape.  Keep it up.

[judiann2448]

No diabetes.  Inderal is for anxiety, palpatations and menstrual migraines.  I guess my real question is about the carotid artery thickening.  Is this just part of aging?  Should I be worried.  According to my internist it is "minimal".  And, yes, a cardiologist is keeping track of the MVP with yearly echos.  THANKS SO MUCH for the reply!