Carotid Artery Disease

Know the factors that put you at risk for Carotid Artery Disease. Often, the first symptoms are a transient ischemic attack (TIA, a ministroke) or stroke.

What are the risk factors?

Risk factors include:

  • high blood pressure

  • diabetes

  • smoker

  • advanced age

  • overweight

  • high cholesterol

  • sleep apnea

  • inactive lifestyle

What is Carotid Artery Disease?

It is the blockage of the two main arteries leading to the brain, depriving oxygen to your brain.

What are the symptoms?

You may not show any symptoms at first. Dangerous complications—such as a TIA or stroke—can arise when the clogged build-up breaks off, depending on the clot size and the location of the blockage.

Symptoms of a stroke or TIA include:

  • trouble walking

  • trouble speaking

  • paralysis or numbness, typically on one side of the face or body

  • blurred vision

  • severe headache

  • confusion

Even if these symptoms do not last long, please seek emergency attention or call 911.

How can it be prevented?

Avoid Carotid Artery Disease by maintaining a healthy weight and a diet that limits alcohol and salt. Exercise regularly. Do not smoke. Work with your doctors to monitor chronic illnesses. 

What is the treatment?

Surgical intervention is required. Thanks to advances in medicine, the downtime is minimal. Most patients resume activities the day after surgery. It is an easy fix that can prevent a devastating problem and save your life.

If you exhibit risk factors, symptoms, or have a family history of heart disease, please call or fill out the form below to schedule a screening.