Blood rich in oxygen reaches the brain through the carotid arteries, which are found on either side of your neck. Feeling your pulse lightly on the lower side of your neck will allow you to identify the carotid arteries.

The artery-clogging plaque that gradually clogs these arteries is the cause of carotid artery disease. A significant accumulation of plaque has the potential to diminish or stop brain blood flow. A stroke can occur when the brain receives insufficient oxygen. In the United States, stroke ranks as the third most common cause of mortality. A blocked carotid artery is the cause of about 25% of strokes.

Atherosclerosis and carotid artery stenosis are other terms for carotid artery disease. (The term "atheroclerosis" refers to plaque accumulation in all arteries, not just the carotid. ( ).

What is the cause of Carotid artery Disease?

Plaque accumulation in your carotid arteries is what causes carotid artery disease.

The fatty components in your blood, including cholesterol, are what make up plaque. Over a period of years, the plaque gradually accumulates. However, over time, plaque can make your arteries harder and narrower. In particular, the brain's oxygen supply can be cut off by carotid artery disease, which can also slow or block blood flow.

Cholesterol may not be the only factor. The following risk factors are frequently linked to carotid artery disease. Your likelihood of developing carotid artery disease increases as your risk factors increase.

You can alter risk factors.

• Eating high-fat foods
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking
• Stress
• Excess weight
• Risk factors you cannot change
• Age-the risk increases with age
• Heredity-the risk increases if there is family history of heart or blood vessel disease Other health conditions that can increase your risk
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure

To learn more, go to the Risk Factors section and Health Conditions section (to learn about diabetes and high blood pressure).

What are the symptoms of Carotid artery Disease?

No symptoms are present in some individuals with carotid artery disease. People who witness a stroke may notice these symptoms as well.

• Feeling lightheaded.
• Coordination problems abrupt, intense headache difficulty swallowing.
• Inability to understand or speak.
• Vision loss or blurriness in one or both eyes.
• Weakness or numbness on one side of your body, in your face, arm, or leg.

What tests could I have?

One or more of the tests listed below may be recommended by your doctor to determine whether you have carotid artery disease. Your doctor may select the best course of treatment for you based on the test results as well.

You might occasionally be referred to experts for testing and diagnosis as well as for medical care. Visit the section on Your Treatment Team to find out more.

• CT scan of an angiogram.
• Doppler ultrasonography (MRI).
• The Stethoscope Test.

What is an angiogram?

An angiogram is an x-ray-like picture of your blood vessels. An angiogram displays:

1. how well the arteries are able to transport blood.

2. whether there are any blockages, and if so, where they are.

3. If your doctor thinks there may be blockages in: an angiogram may be recommended.

4. The coronary arteries in your heart.

5. Peripheral arteries are the arteries that are found outside the heart.

6. The carotid arteries are the arteries in your neck.

A cardiac catheterization precedes the angiogram. A catheter, a small, flexible tube, is inserted into a blood vessel in your arm or groin during a cardiac catheterization. Your doctor gently "steers" the catheter in the direction of your blocked blood vessel. Your doctor inserts the catheter and injects dye to start the angiogram. The dye makes it possible for images of your blood vessels to appear on a monitor, sort of like roads on a map. Your doctor might be able to perform a procedure like balloon angioplasty right away to treat the blocked artery right away if the angiogram reveals one.

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan

What is a CAT scan?

An unique kind of x-ray is a computed tomography (CAT) scan. While there are numerous body parts that can be imaged with a CAT scan, let's focus on the heart for this example. Two-dimensional images can be seen with a conventional xray.

the width and length of the heart. However, a CAT scan makes use of an x-ray machine that travels throughout your body while taking several pictures of your heart. Different tissues absorb x-rays at different rates when they pass through your body in tiny amounts. Comparing this to a conventional x-ray, it helps produce a more accurate image.

A three-dimensional view, including length, width, and depth, is provided by the combination of the CAT scan images on a video monitor. An improved image of the entire heart can be obtained with a CAT scan compared to a conventional two-dimensional x-ray because it is a three-dimensional image.

Numerous medical disorders, such as tumors or issues with the bones like osteoporosis, can be found with a CAT scan. In relation to cardiovascular and vascular disorders, a CAT scan is frequently utilized to determine:.

Certain heart disease types, like heart failure, can be caused by blood clots or blood vessel blockages.

What can I expect?

It is customary to undress and change into a hospital gown or sheet before a computed tomography (CAT) scan. On a table used for exams, you lie. The table moves gradually inside a doughnut-shaped machine as the test gets underway.

A contrast dye is occasionally administered to you, usually through an intravenous (IV) line inserted into your arm. The dye makes your blood vessels or heart appear as pictures on a monitor. In the event that your blood vessels are the subject of the test, for example, the dye makes them visible—almost like roads on a map. Some effects that the dye may cause are as follows.

When the dye enters your mouth's blood vessels, you may experience a metallic taste, a warm flush, and possibly even nausea for about a minute.

To ensure a smooth scan, the technician will ask you to remain motionless. Straps and/or pillows can occasionally help you maintain your posture. The table slowly travels through the apparatus while the x-ray tube revolves around your body. Maybe you are.

during the scan, you may be asked to hold your breath. While the CAT scan itself is usually not painful, you might find it uncomfortable to have to lie still for anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes during the procedure.

Doppler Ultrasound

What is a Doppler ultrasound?

A moving, three-dimensional image of various body parts can be seen during a Doppler ultrasound. Similar to the ultrasound test performed on pregnant women, this kind of test.

People cannot hear the sound waves that are emitted by the ultrasound machine. The equipment records and measures how the waves are reflected back as the sound reverberates off of the body's fluids and tissues. Even minute variations in the pitch and angular direction of each sound wave are measured by the device. The waves exhibit the following as they "echo" off of the blood vessels.

1. The blood vessels' ability to transport blood.

2. If the vessels have any obstructions.

3. The location and size of any blockages, if any.

Live images are displayed by doppler ultrasound. For instance, it depicts how blood actually flows through arteries. Therefore, the test is used by doctors to identify blockages in different body parts:.

1. In the heart's coronary arteries, where a blockage could result in a heart attack.

2. The carotid arteries in the neck, where a blockage could result in a stroke.

3. In blood vessels in the legs (where a blockage may result in pain brought on by peripheral vascular disease).

A moving image of the heart called an echocardiogram uses Doppler ultrasound technology as well.

What can I expect?

You might have to take off some or all of your clothing and change into a hospital gown before having a Doppler ultrasound. After that, you lie on a exam table. On the area of your skin that will be tested (like the neck or leg), the technician applies gel. The gel aids in the transmission of sound waves. A transducer, which resembles a pen, is then moved around on your skin by the technician.

The device detects the sound waves' echoes as they reverberate off of your body. The result is then displayed on the machine's computer screen as a moving image of your blood vessels.

A painless procedure, ultrasound. But if you're required to have a full bladder, you might feel some discomfort as the sonographer moves the transducer over your body.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

What is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?

Magnets, radio waves, and computer technology are used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to produce images of various body parts. MRI is particularly helpful for producing detailed images of soft tissues. For example, a lot of people get an MRI to examine their blood vessels or heart.

A large, tube-shaped machine is used to perform MRIs. A powerful magnetic field is produced by coils inside the machine's walls. There are more coils that transmit and receive radio waves within the machine's walls. Your body generates weak signals in response to the radio waves. Three-dimensional images of your insides are created by a computer as the machine picks up on the weak signals.

The images can reveal:

• Blockages in blood vessels
• The size and thickness of your heart's chambers
• Damaged muscle from a heart attack
• How your heart valves are working

What can I expect?

You disrobe and put on a hospital gown or sheet prior to your magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Remove any jewelry, hearing aids, or other metal objects before entering the MRI room. Because the MRI machine's magnets are so powerful, if you have any metal on your body, you run the risk of getting hurt. An MRI should typically be avoided by most people who have a cardiac device, such as a pacemaker, implantable defibrillator, or heart failure device. Before setting up an MRI appointment, all cardiac device users should consult their doctor.

You lie on a moveable table in the MRI room while having an intravenous (IV) line placed in your arm. During the procedure, the IV administers fluids and medications. The technician might inject the IV with contrast dye, for example.

Your chest is covered with patches known as electrodes. On an electrocardiogram (ECG), the electrodes are connected to the wires. During the procedure, the electrodes and ECG track the activity of your heart. Also frequently taken regularly is your blood pressure, which is measured by a cuff on your arm. There are no moving parts inside the MRI scanner; the table you are lying on simply slides into the device. The machine makes thumping noises, so you wear headphones or earplugs to block out some of the noise. During certain portions of the test, the technician may instruct you to lie very still or hold your breath. On the other hand, your fingers or toes might twitch.

Stethoscope Test

A carotid artery blockage can frequently be identified by a very straightforward test in which your doctor uses a stethoscope to listen to your blood flow. When blood flows through an artery, an irregular whooshing sound known as a bruit may indicate a blockage.

The stethoscope test is a useful screening procedure. Additional tests might be prescribed by your physician.

What are the treatment options?

A part of your treatment might involve adopting a healthier lifestyle because lifestyle variables can impact carotid artery disease. Your doctor or nurse may offer suggestions on how to start exercising more if, for instance, you rarely find the time. Visit the Risk Factors section to learn more.

Your test results will determine additional treatment options. One or more of these prescription drugs or surgical procedures may be suggested by your doctor.

Medications

Anticoag uIants

Procedures

Balloon Angioplasty

Endarterectomy

Stent Implant

Tips for Taking Heart Medicine.

You might be interested in learning more about some of your medications if you suffer from a heart or blood vessel condition. The details in this section describe.

Several drugs that are frequently recommended for heart or blood vessel conditions. Additionally, it offers some advice on how to take your medications as directed.

As soon as a new doctor prescribes medication for you, be sure to inform them of all the drugs and supplements you are taking. Then, your doctor can assist in ensuring that you benefit the most from your medications. Informing your doctor of this information also helps to prevent harmful interactions.

medications.

Each time you receive a new medication, you may also want to bring up these issues with your doctor or nurse:.

1. the rationale behind your medication use, the anticipated advantages, and any potential drawbacks.

2. how to take your medications and when to do so.

3. if you use any additional over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, or other medications.

Your heart may occasionally require several months to adjust to new medications. Therefore, it's possible that you won't see any progress right away. Additionally, it might take some time for your doctor to determine the ideal dosage.

People who take heart medications occasionally need blood tests. Your doctor can determine the proper dosage with the aid of the blood tests, thereby reducing the likelihood of negative side effects.

Never alter the dosage of your medication on your own because you feel better without it, no longer need it, or think it's not working as intended.

If you have:, make sure to discuss them with your physician or a nurse.

1. Concerns about the operation of your medications.

2. a negative side effect.

3. forgetting to take your medication.

4. trouble affording your prescription drugs.

5. Other obstacles that keep you from taking your medications on time.

6. Query about taking any of your prescription drugs.

And if you have any queries about how and when to take your medications, don't be afraid to ask your pharmacist.

Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners)

You can understand the purpose of anticoagulants by looking at the root words of the term. Anti = counter or against; coagulant = thicken or clot.

Some Generic (and Brand) Names

All medications are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a specific patient group or condition. Only your doctor knows which medications are appropriate for you.

• Aspirin
• Clopidogrel (Plavix)
• Ticlopidine (Ticlid)
• Warfarin (Coumadin)

What They're Used For

To reduce the risk of blood clots that could lead to stroke and other medical conditions

How They Work

Contrary to popular belief, anticoagulants do not actually thin the blood. Instead, they aid in preventing blood clots from forming.

These drugs are used to treat diseases linked to atherosclerosis, or plaque-clogged arteries. A blood clot can result from plaque buildup.

Angina (chest pain) can be brought on by a blood clot in the coronary arteries, which supply the heart muscle with blood. Coronary artery disease (CAD), which is a clot or blockage in the coronary arteries, can cause a heart attack.

Having a stroke can be brought on by a blood clot in the carotid arteries of the neck.

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD), a blood clot in the veins of the arms or legs, can be painful.

By reducing the blood's stickiness, anticoagulant medications can: lessen the chance of blood clots forming.

Procedures

Balloon Angioplasty

What is a balloon angioplasty?

A balloon angioplasty opens blocked blood vessels by pressing plaque against the artery wall. It is a procedure that uses local numbing. General anesthesia usually is not needed.

This procedure opens the artery and allows blood to flow more freely, which can reduce your:

• Risk of heart attack-in the coronary arteries • Level of pain in your legs or arms-in the peripheral arteries • Risk of stroke- in the carotid arteries

How is the procedure done?

Catheterization is usually the first step in a balloon angioplasty. A tiny, flexible tube known as a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel in your groin (or occasionally in your arm) during a catheterization. The catheter is "steered" gently toward your obstructed vessel by your doctor. Your blood vessels can be seen as images on a monitor, much like roads on a map, thanks to dye inserted through the catheter. The term "angiogram" refers to this portion of the process. The angiogram and catheterization are usually included in the process. Your physician initiates the angioplasty as soon as the blockage is clearly visible on imaging.

The physician inserts a small balloon into the end of a specially designed catheter to perform an angioplasty. Your artery blockage is close to where the doctor inflates the balloon. Better blood flow is made possible by the inflated balloon pressing the plaque against the artery wall.

Your doctor might insert a stent using a different catheter following the balloon angioplasty. An artery is kept open by a tiny mesh tube called a stent. Your artery might not get clogged again thanks to the stent.

What can I expect?

Before the procedure, you are typically instructed to fast for a number of hours. It will be done in a "cath lab" for your procedure. A line for an intravenous (IV) is inserted into your arm while you lie on an examination table. During the procedure, the IV supplies medications and fluids. You get drowsy from the medication, but not too much.

For the catheter, the physician makes a tiny incision. Since the area will be numbed, you shouldn't experience any pain, but as the catheter is inserted, you might feel some pressure. For example, your doctor or nurse may quiz you during the angioplasty to make sure you are not in pain. You might spend the night in the hospital. However, the majority of patients recover rather quickly.

Endarterectomy

What is an endarterectomy?

An endarterectomy is a kind of blood vessel surgery. This surgery opens blocked blood vessels by removing plaque buildup from inside the artery wall. This allows blood to flow more freely through your arteries. An endarterectomy is usually done to clear plaque from two types of vessels:

• The carotid arteries in the neck-to reduce your risk of stroke • The peripheral arteries in the legs and arms-to relieve pain

An endarterectomy is a surgery that usually requires general anesthesia.

How is the surgery done?

At the site of the clogged blood vessel, an endarterectomy is performed. That said, the surgery is performed in the same manner wherever it is performed.

Your doctor might, for instance, make a neck incision to access a blocked carotid artery. Your doctor locates the blockage and then inserts a tube, known as a shunt, both above and below the blockage. During the procedure, the shunt reroutes blood around the blockage. Utilizing a specialized tool, your physician removes the plaque. Your doctor will suture the carotid artery and the incision shut after removing the shunt.

What can I expect?

The day of your surgery, you will typically be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for a period of time. An intravenous (IV) line is inserted while you are lying on a exam table.

the arm. During the procedure, the IV administers fluids and medications. Following that, you are wheeled into the operating room. To make you unconscious during the procedure, you are frequently given medication. 1-2 days in the hospital are possible after surgery. It's crucial not to move your neck too quickly or frequently for a few weeks after you leave the hospital.

Stent Implant

What is a stent?

An artery is kept open with the aid of a tiny mesh tube known as a stent. In order to lower the possibility of a subsequent blockage or narrowing after an angioplasty procedure, your doctor places a stent in a freshly opened artery. Stents are frequently inserted into the carotid arteries or coronary arteries, which supply blood to your heart and neck, respectively. Local anesthesia is used during a stent implant procedure. Most of the time, general anesthesia is unnecessary.

There are two types of coronary artery stents: bare metal and drug-coated. A drug-coated stent is a bare metal stent that has been treated with a special drug to help lower the risk of the artery becoming blocked once more. a drug.

Over the time when a new blockage is most likely to occur, coating from the stent is released.

The need for a second procedure (like a coronary stent procedure or bypass surgery) to reopen the artery may be lessened if you have a drug-coated stent implant.

How is the implant procedure done?

Your doctor might perform an atherectomy or a balloon angioplasty prior to implanting a stent in order to clear the blocked artery. Catheterization is required for those procedures as well as the stent implant. A catheter, a small, flexible tube, is inserted through a blood vessel in your groin (or occasionally in your arm) during a catheterization. Your doctor gently "steers" the catheter in the direction of your blocked vessel.

Your blood vessels can be seen on a monitor as images thanks to dye injected through the catheter, almost like roads on a map. (This step of the procedure is known as an angiogram. Usually, a stent implant includes a catheterization and an angiogram.

The doctor inserts the stent into your newly opened artery with the help of a specialized catheter after removing the obstruction. The stent is beneficial because.

• Maintain an open artery to allow free blood flow.

• Prevent further artery blockage by plaque accumulation.

What can I expect?

Prior to the procedure, you are typically instructed to fast for a number of hours. The setting for your procedure is a "cath lab.". An intravenous (IV) line is inserted into your arm while you lie on an examination table. Throughout the procedure, fluids and medications are delivered via the IV. You feel sleepy from the medication, but not out cold.

To insert the catheter, the physician makes a tiny incision. Since the area will be numbed, you shouldn't experience any pain, but as the catheter is inserted, you might feel some pressure. Your doctor or nurse may quiz you during the stent implant to make sure you are not in any pain, for example. The incision site may be tender, and you might spend the night in the hospital. The majority of people heal rather rapidly.