The carotid arteries are located on both sides of the neck and carry the blood supply to the brain. CAD is when one or both carotid arteries become blocked or significantly narrowed (stenosis).
Yes. When blood supply is reduced, it deprives the brain of oxygen and can cause a stroke, mini-stroke or other symptoms.
The cause is vascular disease or atherosclerosis, buildup of fatty deposits in the artery narrowing and restricting blood flow. Atherosclerosis can affect any artery. It is the same disease that creates blockages in the coronary arteries which cause a heart attack.
Yes. Often there may be no symptoms, at least until the artery is severely blocked compromising blood flow. Symptomatic disease results in a TIA or stroke.
This may be the first sign of carotid artery disease. It is also a warning that a stoke is imminent but may occur months after a mini-stroke. But a TIA rarely causes permanent brain damage. A mini-stroke is an emergency. Call 911 and get to a hospital for treatment as soon as possible.
Stroke is a symptom of carotid artery disease. Symptoms are the same as for a TIA, but continues long enough to cause permanent brain damage. The location in the brain where the blood loss was focused will determine the physical or mental disability that results, and the size of the area affected will determine recovery prospects.
Yes, you will need regular carotid artery ultrasound testing to assure the artery stays open.
Not necessarily. It will depend on a variety of facts.
Treatment is dependent on the facts of each person’s individual case.
Medical treatments and efforts to modify risk factors are important. Lifestyle changes like stopping smoking, addressing high cholesterol and blood glucose levels, improving diet, lowering blood pressure and increasing exercise. Medications to treat these conditions may be recommended.
CAD is associated with about one third of all strokes. Even if the blockage is removed, there is still the risk of future strokes due to other conditions.
Yes, and usually requires an overnight in the hospital.
When you have questions about the health of your carotid arteries, contact South Valley Vascular. Carotid artery surgery at South Valley Vascular has received a 5-star rating from Healthgrades, the nation’s leading independent health care ratings organization. You can come see us at one of our locations in Visalia, Poterville, Hanford, Tulare, and Fresno. We deliver. Don’t delay and call us today at (559) 625-4118!
