Carotid Arterial Disease refers to the narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries, which are located on either side of the neck and are responsible for supplying blood to the brain. These arteries deliver oxygen and nutrients to the brain, allowing it to function properly. However, when there is excessive plaque buildup (accumulation of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances) on the arterial walls, the carotid arteries become narrowed and restrict blood flow, leading to Carotid Arterial Disease.
As the disease progresses, the plaque deposits may rupture or break off, causing blood clots to form. These blood clots can travel through the bloodstream and get lodged in smaller blood vessels, causing a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a "mini-stroke." Both strokes and TIAs can result in sudden loss of brain function, impacting speech, movement, and memory.
Common risk factors for Carotid Arterial Disease include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. The condition often develops gradually and can remain asymptomatic until a stroke or TIA occurs. However, if symptoms are present, they may include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, blurred vision, dizziness, or severe headaches.
Treatment options for Carotid Arterial Disease aim to reduce the risk of stroke and manage symptoms. They may include lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, adopting a healthy diet, exercise, medication to control blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and surgical procedures such as carotid endarterectomy or angioplasty with stenting to remove or widen the plaque deposits and improve blood flow. Regular monitoring, early detection, and management of
