What is Carotid Artery Disease?
Carotid artery disease occurs when the major blood vessels that supply blood to your brain become narrowed or blocked. These arteries, called carotid arteries, run along each side of your neck. When fatty deposits (plaques) build up in these arteries, it can reduce blood flow to your brain and increase your risk of stroke.
Symptoms
Many people with carotid artery disease have no symptoms until they experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. Warning signs may include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Loss of vision in one eye
- Dizziness or loss of balance
Diagnosis and Treatment
Our cardiologists use advanced imaging techniques including carotid ultrasound and CT angiography to diagnose carotid artery disease. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medications to control risk factors, and in some cases, surgical procedures such as carotid endarterectomy or carotid artery stenting.
If you have risk factors for carotid artery disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a history of smoking, regular screening is important for early detection and prevention of stroke.
