1. Lifestyle Changes
The first step to remove plaque from arteries is to make some lifestyle changes. A healthy lifestyle includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and managing stress. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats helps to reduce the risk of plaque buildup. Exercise also improves circulation, reduces blood pressure, and helps to maintain a healthy weight. Also, smokers are at a higher risk of plaque buildup, so quitting smoking is the best choice. And lastly, high-stress levels cause an increase in blood pressure, which can result in plaque buildup. Therefore, it’s important to find ways of managing stress, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
2. Chelation Therapy
Chelation therapy is a medical treatment that involves injecting a solution of EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) into the bloodstream to bind to the minerals in the plaque and remove them from the arteries. This therapy is usually used to treat lead poisoning but can also be used to remove plaque from arteries. EDTA is a synthetic amino acid that can bind with minerals, such as calcium, which are present in plaque. It’s a non-surgical and non-invasive procedure, making it an excellent option for those who cannot undergo surgery.
3. Prescription Medications
Prescription medications are another way to remove plaque from arteries. The most common medications are statins, which are used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. Statins work by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for producing cholesterol in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, statins reduce the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream, preventing it from depositing in the walls of arteries.
4. Surgery
Surgery is usually the last resort when natural and medical treatments fail to remove plaque from arteries. The most common surgical procedure is angioplasty, where a catheter with a balloon attached is inserted into the blocked artery and inflated to widen the artery. Afterward, a stent may be inserted to keep the artery open. In severe cases, such as complete blockage, bypass surgery may be necessary. This surgery involves taking a blood vessel from another part of the body and using it to bypass the blocked artery.
In conclusion, plaque buildup in the arteries is a severe condition that necessitates immediate attention. A healthy lifestyle, chelation therapy, prescription drugs, and surgery are all ways to remove plaque from arteries. Making lifestyle changes is the first line of defense to preventing plaque buildup, while medical treatments are usually used in advanced-stage cases. Consult a doctor before attempting any of these treatments. It’s important to monitor your heart health and get regular check-ups by a healthcare professional.