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5% carotid obstruction reason to panic?

I am a 45 year old white male about 40 pounds overweight.  Family history is significant for hypertension, diabetes, but no significant coronary history per say.  My parents are both still living.  I see a cardiologist annually as I have a history of benign PVCs .  My cholesterol has been in the 220 range with a somewhat poor ratio.

My stress tests and carotid doppler screenings have always been normal in the past.  Yesterday however, my doctor said there was a 5% occlusion on one side and "thickening" on the other.  We immediatley started a statin, low dose ASA, and 2000mg fish oil.

My question is, am I in immediate danger?  Should I get imaging of heart, aka 64 slice?  I have two young children and want to be there for them.  Is this low amount of plaque reversible??  I am now comitted to making changes in my lifestyle but hope I am "in time."
Thank you for all your help!!
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63984 tn?1385437939
You are wise at your age, cholesterol count, and overweight to make lifestyle changes.  Ed is absolutely correct, I have 60% blockage in both carotids, and neither my doctor nor I are panicking as it has stayed the same for the past twelve years since I lost about fifty pounds, changed my diet and mixed in statins to my daily routine.  I'm tested yearly, and if the blockage hits 70%, I'm sure it will command some attention.  Congratulations for receiving an early wake up call and planning to change behaviors.  
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Avatar universal
Thank you for the advice!!
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976897 tn?1379167602
It is wise to start making lifestyle changes and probably statins, but in reality 5% is absolutely nothing in blockage terms, it will cause no problems whatsoever.
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