Causes of carotid plaque and how to treat it

The occurrence of carotid plaque may be related to atherosclerosis, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes and other factors. Treatment methods include general treatment, drug treatment, surgical treatment, etc. Atherosclerosis refers to the accumulation of cholesterol, fat, calcium and other substances in the inner walls of arteries, forming yellow atherosclerotic substances. These substances can thicken and harden the walls of arteries, thereby reducing blood flow. 2. Hypertension Hypertension is an important risk factor for atherosclerosis. Hypertension can cause damage to the walls of arteries and increase the risk of plaque formation. 3. Hypercholesterolemia Hypercholesterolemia is another important risk factor for atherosclerosis. Elevated cholesterol levels cause more cholesterol to accumulate in the inner walls of arteries, increasing the risk of plaque formation. 4. Diabetes Diabetes causes elevated blood sugar levels, affecting the health of artery walls and increasing the risk of plaque formation. Treatment 1. General treatment For patients with small, asymptomatic carotid plaques, lifestyle changes may be the preferred treatment, including smoking cessation, reduced intake of saturated fatty acids and cholesterol, increased exercise, weight control and blood pressure. 2. Medication For patients with large carotid plaque, symptoms or high risk factors, doctors may recommend medication, commonly used drugs include aspirin, clopidogrel, torvastatin, etc. 3. Surgical treatment For patients with severe carotid plaque stenosis, surgery may be required. Common surgical procedures include carotid endarterectomy and carotid stenting.