Carotid Artery Stenosis

This problem arises when fatty deposits clog the blood vessels to the brain namely carotid arteries. This increases the risk of stroke. This disease progresses slowly and gradually. It can manifest as a stroke or transient ischemic attack.

What are the symptoms?

1. sudden numbness or weakness
2. sudden trouble speaking
3. sudden trouble seeing
4. sudden dizziness
5. sudden severe headache

When to see a doctor?

Doctor should be consulted immediately whenever a person experiences transient ischemic attack.

What are the causes?

The disease is caused by a build up of plaques in carotid arteries. Plaques are clumps of cholesterol, calcium, fibrous tissue and other cellular debris. Carotid artery stenosis can result in stroke due to

• reduced blood flow
• ruptured plaque with blood clot block

What are the risk factors?

• high blood pressure
• tobacco abuse
• diabetes
• high blood fat levels
• family history
• increasing age
• obesity
• sleep apnea
• lack of physical activity

How to prevent carotid artery stenosis?

• stop smoking
• maintain a healthy weight
• limit cholesterol, fat and salt intake
• limit alcohol
• exercise regularly
• control diabetes and blood pressure

How can this be prevented and treated ?

• life style changes to slow the progression of atherosclerosis
• medication to control blood pressure and to lower cholesterol
• if blockage is severe
  • carotid endarterectomy
  • carotid angioplasty and stenting.

Authored By Dr. Sai Sudarsan