Because of the uncontrolled blood pressure my family doctor referred me to a cardiologist who ordered a CTA. A 70% blockage of the LAD was highly calcified. I understand this is very high for a woman. I am 62 years of age and have been taking the vitamin c 20 grams and lysine 6 grams for probably close to 3 years. However I am ashamed to admit that I did not follow the Pauling Therapy as related to diet and as a general rule most of the time my diet has been pretty bad. Now, of course, the cardiologist recommends cardiac cath and possible stenting. I know that no one can tell me what course to take but I would like opinions. Beleive me I have seen the hand writing on the wall and all bad eating habits are over and I have lost 15 lbs this past month. My blood sugars are abnormal and generally run 105-116. One in a great while they may be slightly higher. I don't have chest pain. Once in a while I have a slight discomfort in the jaw area just for a second or two. I have lost 3 brothers and one sister to heart attacks and have a 76 year old sister who had a stent put in last year. I don't want to rush into this because I know if I agree to the cath more than likely I will come out with a stent. The other concern is that I have a 50-60% carotid blockage and if they do stenting or bypass I fear having a stroke. One of my brothers had a stent put in and it re stenosed after a year if not sooner.
I would like to know if I put this on hold, along with lifestyle changes, is it possible to keep the blockages from progressing. I take a good variety of supplements which include alpha lipoic acid, vitamin K2, unique E, magnesium, COQ10 400 mg.
The blood pressure is finally controlled after several medication trials. I think it is greatly helped by not eating any wheat or sugar products.
I appreciate any ideas or opinions.
Sharon