Carotid artery stenosis refers to narrowing in the carotid arteries. This condition is the leading cause of stroke because it limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain.
The carotid arteries are located on each side of your neck, and are the primary blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. You can sometimes feel them pulsating by placing your fingers gently on either side of your windpipe.
Over time, these arteries can become narrowed by a build-up of plaque – a mix of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. The process of plaque build-up is known as atherosclerosis and is the leading cause of carotid stenosis.
Carotid stenosis is a potentially serious condition that can lead to stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), often called “mini-strokes” which, although not immediately life-threatening, are warning signs of a possible future stroke. A full stroke, on the other hand, can be disabling or fatal. A tiny piece of plaque can also break off and block a smaller artery in the brain, which is a common stroke mechanism.
With proper management, the progression of carotid stenosis can be slowed, and the risks can be significantly reduced. Awareness of the condition’s risk factors, coupled with regular health screenings for those at risk, is vital for early detection and treatment.
Carotid stenosis can be either symptomatic or asymptomatic. Symptomatic carotid stenosis means the narrowing of the carotid arteries has caused a stroke, manifesting as weakness, numbness, or a tingling sensation on one side of the body, difficulty speaking
or understanding speech, and sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one eye.
Alternatively, carotid stenosis may cause a transient ischemic attack (TIA) with same manifestations of a stroke but with the difference that symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours. Asymptomatic carotid stenosis, however, presents no symptoms, and patients may be unaware they have the condition until it is detected by a doctor through routine checks or after a stroke has occurred.
The causes and risk factors for carotid stenosis are similar to those for other cardiovascular diseases. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle all contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and consequently to carotid stenosis. Older age and a family history of atherosclerosis
or early heart disease are also risk factors. Moreover, unhealthy diet choices play a role in its development.
For detection, doctors use several methods to investigate the health of the carotid arteries. The most common is a non-invasive ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the blood flow through the carotid arteries and to determine if there is any narrowing or blockage. More advanced imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) or computed tomography angiography (CTA), can provide more detailed images and are used if more information is needed or surgery is being considered.
Management of carotid stenosis involves lifestyle changes to slow the progression of atherosclerosis, like quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Medications may be prescribed to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing stroke risk. In cases where the artery is significantly narrowed, surgical procedures such as carotid endarterectomy (removing the plaque from the artery) or carotid artery angioplasty with stenting (widening the narrowed artery and placing a stent to keep it open) may be recommended.
Carotid dissection is a relatively rare but potentially serious condition, involving a tear in one of the carotid arteries, the major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. This tear allows blood to enter the wall of the artery, creating a blockage or reducing blood flow, which can lead to a stroke.
Symptoms are often sudden and can be dramatic. They may include a sharp or pulsating pain in the neck or head, typically on one side; a drooping eyelid; a small pupil; blurred or double vision; and in severe cases, stroke-like symptoms such as weakness, difficulty speaking, or numbness on one side of the body.
Diagnosing carotid dissection involves imaging tests. A CT angiogram, MRI, or ultrasound can help visualize the condition of the carotid arteries. These tests are critical for confirming the diagnosis and determining the severity of the dissection. Prompt diagnosis is crucial, as early treatment can greatly improve the outcome and reduce the risk of stroke. Treatment may involve blood thinners, surgery, or other interventions depending on the individual case.
Carotid body tumours are rare, slow-growing tumours located at the carotid artery bifurcation in the neck. This area contains the carotid body, a small cluster of cells playing a role in regulating blood oxygen levels. These tumours, while mostly benign, can cause problems due to
their location.
©Copyright - All Rights Reserved 2024. VASCULARCLINIC
