Stroke Risk
Carotid Artery Disease
Plaque buildup in the arteries that supply blood to the brain
What is it?
Carotid artery disease occurs when the carotid arteries — the major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain — become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This significantly increases the risk of stroke.
Symptoms
- Sudden numbness or weakness in face/arm/leg
- Sudden trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
- Sudden severe headache
- Dizziness or loss of balance
Causes & Risk Factors
- Atherosclerosis
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Family history
Diagnosis
Carotid ultrasound, CT angiography, MR angiography, and cerebral angiography are used. Regular screening is recommended for high-risk individuals.
Treatment Options
Lifestyle changes and medications
Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA)
Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS)
Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)
When to Seek Medical Advice
Call emergency services immediately (FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call). These are stroke warning signs — every minute counts.