Vascular and Vein Institute of the South
Carotid Arterial Disease Q & A
What is carotid arterial disease?
The carotid arteries carry blood to the brain and head. Carotid arterial disease occurs when these arteries become blocked with fatty deposits. Once the blockage becomes significant enough, it interrupts or reduces the blood supply to the brain, increasing the likelihood of a stroke.
Carotid artery disease can take years to develop, and there are no outward symptoms until someone has a stroke or a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke.
To prevent a stroke, you need to catch the signs of carotid arterial disease early on. We use state-of-the-art technologies to reach a diagnosis so you can begin treatment as soon as possible.
What are the symptoms of carotid arterial disease?
Carotid arterial disease doesn’t give any warning symptoms. Without a diagnosis in advance, the first someone knows they have it is when it is so severe it cuts off the blood supply to the brain, causing a stroke or TIA. If any of these symptoms occur suddenly, seek medical help immediately.
- Numbness or weakness in the face or limbs, often on one side of the body
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Trouble speaking and understanding
- Severe headache
If you wait until you have these symptoms, it could be too late. Stay on top of your health and make an appointment with us today to get checked over.
How can you prevent carotid arterial disease?
Carotid arterial disease is preventable by making smart life choices. And even with a diagnosis, making some of these lifestyle changes can help slow the process.
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Don’t smoke
- Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables
- Limit cholesterol and fat
- Limit salt
- Limit alcohol
- Control of chronic conditions
Our team of board-certified vascular surgeons work with you to create an integrated treatment plan, looking at medical and lifestyle changes to improve your health and manage the condition. Call or schedule your appointment online today.
