billyabe,
Thanks for your question.
CAT scans done for calcium scoring detect the amount of calcium which correlates pretty well with the existence and extent of coronary artery disease. It does not, however, show the anatomy - the location and size of the blockages that are present. This can only be done by cardiac catheterization. The calcium is located within the plaques, or blockages.
First, you must do everything you can to stop the progression of the disease process. Though you can't change your genetic predisposition, there are many things you can do about other risk factors that you have.
You have to make major lifestyle changes. You must cut the alcohol intake to no more than two drinks a day. By this I mean 2 ounces of hard liquor, or 8 ounces of wine, or 24 ounces of beer. Less than two drinks a day have actually shown benefit for the heart, especially if it's in the form of red wine. More than two ounces have shown a negative effect on the heart.
A very strict diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol is mandatory. You must stop smoking immediately and start, or continue a regular exercise program. If overweight, strive to get your weight down to where it should be. Should you have high blood pressure or diabetes, these should be treated aggressively to keep them under control.
Sleep apnea is a serious problem that, left untreated, will lead to high blood pressure and a higher risk of cardiac events. I assume you are using a CPAP machine, and must be compliant with its use every night. It will take several months getting used to the machine, but you will not only feel better, your heart will be at lower risk also.
I also assume you have discussed medical treatment of your coronary artery disease with your physician. If not on medication for cholesterol, this is an important subject to discuss with him also. In addition, you should be taking a small dose of aspirin every day.
Some studies have shown that aggressive measures as outlined above have shown regression of the plaques in many patients. A lot has changed in the treatment of CAD over the last 20 years, with new information being obtained on a steady basis. Because of medical management and newer techniques for treating the blockages themselves (stent placement) the need for bypass surgery has declined tremendously.
I hope this has been helpful. Best wishes.
Martin Cane, M.D.
Will 50-150ug/da dose of K2 reverse the calcium? Thanks