Can exercise eliminate carotid artery plaques?

In general, exercise cannot directly eliminate carotid artery plaques. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Carotid artery plaque is a result of atherosclerosis, referring to deposits of lipids, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances that form on the blood vessel walls. These plaques gradually enlarge, leading to narrowing or blockage of the vessels, thereby impairing blood flow. Once formed within the arterial wall, carotid plaques are relatively stable and unlikely to rupture or dislodge. Although exercise can improve overall cardiovascular health, reduce the formation of new plaques, and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, it does not directly impact or abrade existing plaques; therefore, it cannot eliminate carotid artery plaques.

If a patient wishes to remove carotid artery plaques, they may, under medical supervision, use medications such as rosuvastatin calcium capsules or enteric-coated aspirin tablets. When necessary, treatment may also involve surgical procedures such as carotid endarterectomy or carotid angioplasty with stenting, which should be performed at a正规 hospital.