Frequently Asked Questions About Cardiovascular Inflammation
Residual inflammatory risk: What is it and why does it matter?
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Residual inflammatory risk refers to low-grade inflammation that remains in your arteries even after lowering cholesterol. This hidden inflammation continues to damage blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack or stroke—even when other health markers appear normal.
Think this could apply to you? Take our 1-minute Inflammation Risk Quiz
Atherosclerosis: What is it, and how does it relate to inflammation?
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Atherosclerosis is when plaque (fatty deposits) builds up inside the arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow. Inflammation makes this plaque more unstable - increasing the risk of a rupture that could lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Atherosclerosis: How does inflammation make plaque more dangerous?
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Inflammation can weaken and destabilize the fatty plaques inside your arteries. If a plaque ruptures, it may cause a blood clot that blocks blood flow, leading to a heart attack or stroke.
Plaque buildup in the arteries: How does it cause heart problems?
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Plaque restricts blood flow. If the plaque bursts, it can trigger a clot that blocks the artery completely - causing a heart attack or stroke.
Cardiovascular inflammation: How does it lead to heart attacks and strokes?
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When your arteries are chronically inflamed, their inner lining becomes irritated and damaged. This damage encourages plaque buildup and makes existing plaque more likely to rupture.
Learn how to measure and address hidden inflammation: What is hs-CRP?
Residual inflammation: What does it mean if I’ve already lowered my cholesterol?
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Even with good cholesterol and blood pressure control, inflammation may still be present. This residual inflammation continues to pose a serious risk to heart health unless it’s identified and treated.
Not sure if you’re still at risk? Talk to a cardiovascular specialist
Residual inflammatory risk: What is it?
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Residual inflammatory risk is the hidden inflammation that remains in your arteries even after lowering cholesterol. It continues to damage the arteries and increases the risk of future heart events.
Residual inflammatory risk: How can I reduce my risk?
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You can lower inflammation with lifestyle changes like a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and stress reduction. In some cases, your doctor may recommend medication.
Residual inflammation: How do I know if I have it?
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If you’ve already had a heart event — like a heart attack, bypass surgery, or stent — or if your cholesterol is under control but you’re still at risk, you may have residual inflammation.
A simple blood test called hs-CRP can help detect hidden inflammation, but even without testing, your doctor can evaluate your risk based on your history and symptoms.
Ask your doctor if inflammation might still be putting your heart at risk.
Not sure where to start? Download our doctor discussion guide or
hs-CRP: What is it and why is it important?
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hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) is a blood test that detects low levels of inflammation in the body. It is the most reliable marker for identifying cardiovascular inflammation and predicting future heart attacks or strokes.
Already tested? Understand your hs-CRP result