What Are The Common Risk Factors For Developing A Carotid Artery Disease?
How To Diagnose & Treat Carotid Artery Disease?
This is a cardiovascular condition in which the carotid arteries, i.e., the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain become narrowed and harden. This narrowing is caused by the buildup of plaque or fatty deposits clogging the arteries. These plaques are made up of cholesterol, calcium, and other materials. If left untreated, the carotid artery disease can lead into a more fatal condition called a stroke, which occurs when the blood supply to the brain is totally cut off. A stroke can cause permanent damage to the brain and even death.
The first telltale sign of this condition is a transient ischemic attack or better known as TIA which temporarily suspends the blood supply reaching to the brain. Other most common symptoms of carotid artery disease include:
- A sudden feeling of numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (usually on one side of the body)
- Sudden deterioration in understanding speech or problems while speaking
- Problems with vision that may involve either one or both eyes
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, and headaches
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a cardiac specialist right away.
What Are The Common Risk Factors For Developing A Carotid Artery Disease?
There are a few risk factors for developing that include:
- High blood pressure, which can damage the arteries and lead to plaque buildup.
- Smoking is another risk factor, as it can also damage the arteries.
- Diabetes is another potential risk factor for carotid artery disease as it can cause potential damage to the blood vessels.
- Having high cholesterol can also contribute to the development of this artery disease.
- Family history is also a risk factor, as it can be an indicator of genetic predisposition.
How To Diagnose & Treat Carotid Artery Disease?
It is diagnosed through a comprehensive history and physical exam as well as imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. If you have been diagnosed with a carotid artery diseases by your cardiologist, it means that there is a blockage in one or both of the arteries that supply blood to your head and neck area which may further lead to a stroke or even death.
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and eating a healthy diet, and medications, such as statins. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to open up the blocked arteries. The goal of treatment is to reduce your risk of having a stroke.
Dr. Arun – A Highly Prominent Board-Certified Interventional Cardiologist Known For His Expertise In Treating Carotid Artery Disease!
This is a serious condition that one should never ignore and must seek a professional consultation for immediate treatment remedies. Dr. Arun is one such prominent cardiologist whom you can consult for any symptoms as listed above that you may be encountering and ask for his expert guidance to see you through this condition in the best possible manner. With prompt treatment, you certainly have a great chance of reducing your risk for stroke.
