Carotid Artery Disease

What is carotid artery disease?

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 a buildup of plaque. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, reduces blood flow to the brain and significantly increases the risk of stroke. Over time, plaque buildup can lead to partial or complete blockage, potentially causing a life-threatening event.

Symptoms

Carotid artery disease may develop silently without noticeable symptoms until it becomes severe. However, warning signs may include:

  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA or Mini-Stroke) – Temporary symptoms that resolve within 24 hours but indicate an increased stroke risk

  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness – Typically affecting one side of the body, including the face, arm, or leg

  • Difficulty Speaking or Understanding Speech – Slurred speech or sudden confusion

  • Vision Problems – Blurred or lost vision in one eye

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately, as they may be warning signs of an impending stroke.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing carotid artery disease, including:

  • Age – Risk increases with age, particularly after 50

  • Smoking – Damages arteries and accelerates plaque buildup

  • High Blood Pressure – Increases stress on arterial walls

  • High Cholesterol – Contributes to atherosclerosis

  • Diabetes – Leads to vascular complications and increases stroke risk

  • Obesity – Associated with other cardiovascular risk factors

  • Lack of Physical Activity – Can contribute to poor circulation and weight gain

  • Family History – A genetic predisposition to cardiovascular diseases

Management

Managing carotid artery disease focuses on reducing stroke risk and improving vascular health through lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures.

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Quitting Smoking – Reduces further damage to arteries

  • Healthy Diet – Emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins

  • Regular Exercise – Improves circulation and cardiovascular health

  • Weight Management – Helps control blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Medications

  • Antiplatelet Drugs – Such as aspirin or clopidogrel to prevent blood clots

  • Statins – To lower cholesterol and slow plaque buildup

  • Blood Pressure Medications – To maintain healthy arterial function

  • Diabetes Management – To prevent complications from high blood sugar levels

Medical Procedures

For patients with severe carotid artery narrowing, surgical or minimally invasive treatments may be necessary:

  • Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA) – A surgical procedure to remove plaque from the artery

  • Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS) – A minimally invasive procedure using a stent to keep the artery open

Conclusion

Early detection and proper management of carotid artery disease can significantly reduce stroke risk and improve overall vascular health. If you have risk factors, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and preventive care.