Talk to a Doctor
Ready to Talk to a Doctor About Inflammation?
Worried about inflammation and heart risk? You’re not alone — and you’re not without options. Licensed U.S. doctors can help you understand your cardiovascular risk, discuss test results like hs-CRP if available, and explore next steps. These may include lifestyle changes, lab testing, or medical treatment if appropriate - all from home.
What to Expect Section
Here’s How It Works
1. Video Call With a Doctor
Book a quick virtual consultation with a licensed U.S. physician — no insurance or referral required.
2. Discuss Your Risk Factors
Talk about your health history, symptoms, and — if you have it — your hs-CRP result.
3. Get Treatment, If Appropriate
If medically appropriate, the doctor can prescribe treatment and send it to your pharmacy.
Licensed. No referral required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is atherosclerosis, and how does it relate to inflammation?
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.
2. How does plaque buildup in the arteries cause heart problems?
Plaque restricts blood flow. If the plaque bursts, it can trigger a clot that blocks the artery completely - causing a heart attack or stroke.
3. What is residual inflammatory risk?
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.
4. What is residual inflammation, and why does it matter?
Residual inflammation is the ongoing immune activity in your blood vessels. It keeps your heart at risk even when cholesterol, blood pressure, and lifestyle factors are under control.
5. What is hs-CRP, and why is it important for heart health?
hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) is a blood test that measures low-level inflammation in the body. High hs-CRP levels can indicate a greater risk of heart disease - even in people with normal cholesterol.
6. What’s the difference between CRP and hs-CRP?
CRP is a general inflammation marker used for infections or major illness. hs-CRP is a more sensitive version that detects subtle inflammation, making it valuable for assessing heart disease risk.
7. Can lowering cholesterol alone prevent heart disease?
No. Lowering cholesterol is essential, but inflammation also plays a major role. Many patients with well-controlled cholesterol still have heart attacks because of underlying inflammation.
8. How can I reduce residual inflammatory risk?
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.
9. Are there medications that specifically target inflammation?
A: Yes. Since 2023, a new treatment has been approved in the U.S. to help reduce cardiovascular inflammation and lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes in certain patients. It works by targeting the underlying inflammatory processes in the arteries.
A major clinical trial — the LODOCO2 Study — demonstrated that reducing inflammation in the arteries can significantly improve cardiovascular outcomes, even for patients already on cholesterol-lowering therapy.
📍 If you’re concerned about cardiovascular inflammation, you can talk to a doctor online to learn more.
10. How do I know if I have residual inflammation?
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.
11. What should I ask my doctor about inflammation and heart disease?
Start by asking:
Should I be tested for cardiovascular inflammation?
Am I still at risk even though my cholesterol is controlled?
Is there anything I can do to lower inflammation and protect my heart?
To help you prepare for your appointment, we’ve created a simple Doctor Discussion Guide you can print or bring to your visit.