redjb7

I am 61, female and have no major health issues except obesity -Today the heart doctor gave me the results of my test - 65 percent in one and over 50 in another (not sure of the exact number there). I have normal choles. and am asymptomatic. (I was a smoker for many years - quit ten years ago, but I guess he thinks that may be the reason) The only reason he found it was from hearing a bruit in my artery. He gave me some statins to lower the cholesterol to 170, and is going to give me a treadmill test next week. He also said if I lose weight I could reverse some of the damage. I checked on the internet and found some studies saying that weight loss could help in this and lower it as much as 5 percent, but that there was no proof yet that it would lower risk of stroke. Lowering blood pressure definitely helps I know and that follows with weight loss.
I am really afraid, and am not sure that the right decision is to not have surgery. I guess he needs the next test to be sure, but the way he is talking we are going to carefully watch it. Anyone can give me input on carotid stenosis?