Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is atherosclerosis, and how does it relate to inflammation?
Atherosclerosis is a condition where fatty deposits (plaque) build up in the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. Inflammation plays a key role by making plaque more unstable, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
​
How does plaque buildup in the arteries cause heart problems?
Plaque can narrow arteries, reducing blood supply to the heart. If a plaque ruptures, it can trigger a clot, leading to a heart attack or stroke.
​
What is residual inflammatory risk?
Residual inflammatory risk refers to ongoing inflammation in the arteries even after lowering cholesterol. This hidden inflammation increases the risk of future heart problems.
​
What is residual inflammation, and why does it matter?
Residual inflammation is the lingering immune response in blood vessels that keeps damaging arteries, even after cholesterol and other risk factors are controlled. It plays a major role in heart disease progression.
​
What is hs-CRP, and why is it important for heart health?
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a blood test that measures inflammation in the body. A high hs-CRP level can indicate a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes, even in people with normal cholesterol levels.
​
​
What is the difference between CRP and hs-CRP?
CRP (C-reactive protein) is a general marker of inflammation in the body, typically measured to assess the presence of acute or chronic inflammation. hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) is a more sensitive test that can detect lower levels of CRP, making it useful for assessing low-grade inflammation, particularly for cardiovascular risk assessment.
​
Can lowering cholesterol alone prevent heart disease?
Lowering cholesterol is important, but it’s not enough. Even with well-managed cholesterol, inflammation can still damage arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.
​
How can I reduce residual inflammatory risk?
Managing inflammation requires a combination of a heart-healthy diet, exercise, medications (like colchicine or statins), and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and managing stress.
​
Are there medications that specifically target residual inflammation?
Yes, anti-inflammatory medications like colchicine and certain biologic therapies are being studied and used to lower inflammation in patients with heart disease.
​
How do I know if I have residual inflammation?
Your doctor may check your hs-CRP levels through a simple blood test. If your hs-CRP is high, even with controlled cholesterol, you may still be at risk for heart disease.
​
What should I ask my doctor about inflammation and heart disease?
You can ask about your hs-CRP levels, whether you have residual inflammatory risk, and what steps you can take to lower inflammation beyond managing cholesterol.
​​