The most effective treatments for all ischemic heart diseases are quitting smoking, and medications to control high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Some people also need medications to prevent blood clots.
The goals of treatment include:
Relieving symptoms
Reducing risk factors in an effort to slow or stop the buildup of plaque
Lowering the risk of blood clots forming
Widening or bypassing plaque-clogged arteries
Preventing atherosclerosis-related diseases
Following a healthy diet, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight and managing stress are also important to stopping or reducing the build-up of plaque and avoiding medical emergencies, complication and disability.
If you have severe atherosclerosis, your doctor may also recommend a medical procedure or surgery.