Living With Atherosclerosis

Improved treatments have reduced deaths from atherosclerosis-related diseases. These treatments also have improved the quality of life for people with these diseases.

You may be able to prevent or delay atherosclerosis and the problems it can cause, mainly by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This, along with ongoing medical care, can help you avoid the problems of atherosclerosis and live a long, healthy life.

Research continues look for ways to improve the health of people who have atherosclerosis or may get it. The goals of research are to:

• Find more effective medicines
• Identify people at greatest risk earlier
• Find out how well alternative treatments work

Ongoing Health Care Needs

If you have atherosclerosis, work closely with your doctor and other health care providers to avoid serious problems, like heart attack and stroke.

Talk to your doctor about how often you should schedule office visits or blood tests. Be sure to let your doctor know if you develop new symptoms or if your symptoms worsen.

Support Groups

Community resources are available to help you learn more about atherosclerosis. Contact your local public health departments, hospitals, and local chapters of national health organizations to learn more about available resources in your area.

Talk about your lifestyle changes with your spouse, family, or friends—whoever can provide support or needs to understand why you're changing your habits. They may be able to help you make lifestyle changes, like helping you plan healthier meals.

Because atherosclerosis tends to run in families, your lifestyle changes may help many of your family members too.