# Can atherosclerosis be reversed after being medically diagnosed? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/can-atherosclerosis-be-reversed-after-diagnosis Language: en Category: cardiology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:50.697Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:50.697Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/can-atherosclerosis-be-reversed-after-diagnosis Atherosclerosis is a chronic health condition in which plaques composed of cholesterol, fats, blood cells, and calcium accumulate inside the walls of the arteries, gradually causing them to narrow and obstructing the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the body's organs [\[1\]](). Medically speaking, this condition cannot be "reversed" such that the arteries return to their original state before plaque formation; however, the primary goal of treatment is to halt the progression of the disease, prevent the formation of new plaques, reduce the size of existing ones, and improve the efficiency of blood flow, thereby reducing the likelihood of serious complications [\[1\]](). ## Condition Management Strategies and Lifestyle Changes Successful management of atherosclerosis relies on a comprehensive approach that combines a healthy lifestyle with pharmacological interventions. Lifestyle changes are not merely general advice, but fundamental pillars that contribute to slowing the pace of the disease: - **Diet:** Focusing on foods rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and strictly limiting foods high in saturated fats, salts, and added sugars, reduces the factors that cause plaque buildup [\[1\]](). - **Physical Activity:** Regular exercise contributes to improving heart health. However, it is essential to consult a doctor before starting any exercise program to determine the level of intensity that is safe and appropriate for your health condition [\[1\]](). - **Weight Control and Smoking Cessation:** Reaching a healthy weight and quitting smoking completely directly reduce the pressure on the arteries and the risk of blood clot formation [\[1\]]() [\[2\]](). - **Management of Chronic Medical Conditions:** Effective control of high blood pressure, diabetes, and high blood cholesterol using prescribed medications is an integral part of any treatment plan [\[1\]](). ## Medical and Surgical Interventions When the narrowing becomes severe and affects the quality of life or threatens vital organs, doctors may resort to medical procedures to directly improve blood flow: - **Angioplasty and Stenting:** This procedure uses a small medical balloon to widen the narrowed artery, and a metal stent is often placed inside the artery to keep it open and ensure continuous blood flow [\[2\]](). - **Surgery:** In certain cases, surgical procedures such as artery bypass surgery may be needed to bypass the blocked area [\[1\]](). ## Facts About Chelation Therapy Chelation therapy is frequently asked about as a complementary option for atherosclerosis. It is important to clarify that the use of disodium EDTA for this purpose is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [\[3\]](). Despite some research studies (such as TACT), the results were insufficient to support the routine use of this treatment, and subsequent studies (such as TACT2) showed no significant effect in reducing cardiovascular events. Furthermore, this treatment carries potential risks, such as low blood calcium levels and kidney damage [\[3\]](). ## When to Seek Emergency Care Atherosclerosis is a silent condition in its early stages, but the appearance of certain symptoms requires immediate medical intervention. Go to the emergency department immediately if you feel: chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, or sudden difficulty speaking, as these signs may indicate a heart attack or stroke [\[1\]](). For more details on prevention and early screening, you can view our article on [Atherosclerosis: Early Screening, Prevention, and Risk Management (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Atherosclerosis]() - [Angioplasty and stent placement - peripheral arteries]() - [Chelation for Coronary Heart Disease: What You Need To Know]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/can-atherosclerosis-be-reversed-after-diagnosis#answer