Carotid artery stenosis

Overview

Carotid artery stenosis occurs when the carotid arteries, the major blood vessels that supply blood to the brain, neck, and face, become narrowed due to plaque buildup. This condition reduces blood flow to the brain and increases the risk of stroke. Early detection and proper management can significantly reduce complications and improve quality of life.

Causes

The primary cause of carotid artery stenosis is atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque (made up of cholesterol, fat, and other substances) builds up in the arteries. Other risk factors include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Family history of cardiovascular disease

Lifestyle factors like a sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy diet can also contribute to the development of carotid artery stenosis.

Symptoms

Carotid artery stenosis often develops silently without noticeable symptoms until the condition becomes severe. However, some warning signs may include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or legs, often on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Severe headache with no known cause

If you or a loved one experience any of these, consider immediate stroke screening at Cardiology Care NYC.

Diagnosis

At Cardiology Care NYC, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify carotid artery stenosis accurately. Our comprehensive evaluation includes:

• Physical Exam: Listening for abnormal sounds (bruits) in the carotid arteries with a stethoscope.
• Doppler Ultrasound: A non-invasive test that uses sound waves to visualize blood flow and detect blockages.
• Vascular ultrasound: Offers a broader look at blood vessels in the neck and brain.
• CT or MRI angiography: Advanced imaging techniques to provide detailed pictures of the arteries.
• Cerebral angiography: A minimally invasive procedure that provides highly detailed images of blood vessels.
• Cardiology consultation: A thorough assessment to guide further care.

Early detection is key to preventing complications and tailoring a treatment plan.

Treatment

Cardiology Care NYC offers a range of treatment options tailored to the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health.

Lifestyle Modifications:

For mild cases, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can help slow the progression of the disease. This includes:

• Eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol
• Exercising regularly
• Quitting smoking
• Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Medications:

To manage risk factors and reduce the risk of stroke, we may prescribe:

• Antiplatelet medications (e.g., aspirin)
• Statins to lower cholesterol
• Medications to control blood pressure and diabetes

Ongoing Monitoring:

Patients with carotid artery stenosis benefit from routine evaluations and cardiovascular screening to track changes and prevent complications.

When to See a Doctor

If you have risk factors for carotid artery stenosis, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of cardiovascular disease, it’s crucial to schedule regular heart health screenings. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms like sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, or vision changes.