LET'S TALK ABOUT
Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease occurs when deposits of fat, called plaque, begin to clog the blood vessels that carry blood supply to the head and brain. Increasing the risk of stroke, carotid arteries may become obstructed, shutting off critical blood flow to the brain. pressure, diabetes, tobacco use, and obesity.
Do you experience any of the following symptoms?
Numbness Or Weakness In The Face Or Limbs
Temporary Blindness Affecting Only One Eye
Sudden Trouble Speaking
Severe Headache With No Known Cause
ARE YOU READY TO TAKE YOUR LIFE BACK?
We know that Carotid Artery Disease can really affect your daily life. The things you really enjoy are now difficult or scary due to the risks associated with your condition. At South Atlanta Vascular Institute, we specialize in using the most advanced, least invasive, treatment options for carotid artery disease. Our team is here to listen to your specific needs and help you start living your life again.
What is Carotid Artery Disease?
Carotid artery disease, also referred to as carotid artery stenosis, is a condition that occurs when the carotid artery, the main artery the runs alongside the neck, becomes blocked. This blockage happens when fatty cholesterol deposits form. As plaque deposits build up, normal blood flow decreases, placing the individual at a higher risk of stroke.
There are two carotid arteries, one located vertically on each side of the neck. These large arteries are vital, as they transport blood to the face, head and brain. The circulatory system is a complex network of tube-like structures carrying oxygen and blood to various parts of the body. Healthy arteries are unobstructed, allowing blood and nutrients to flow freely. When an artery becomes blocked, blood flow is impeded and not able to flow efficiently throughout the body.
Carotid artery disease can occur when one or both carotid arteries become congested. Over time, this condition may worsen, leading to stroke with complications that can include death. Stroke ranks fifth on the list of fatal conditions, according to the American Stroke Association. Up to 5 percent of the worldwide population will experience carotid artery disease.
Symptoms of Carotid Artery Blockage
Carotid artery blockage is progressive and may not produce any symptoms in the early stages. As the disease develops, there are several warning signs to be aware of. You may be at immediate risk of stroke if you experience muscle weakness, numb face or limbs, facial drooping, temporary blindness, difficulty speaking, dizziness, loss of balance or sudden, severe headache. It is necessary to seek emergency care immediately if you experience any symptoms of stroke. Prompt medical attention is required, even if symptoms resolve quickly.
The most common stroke that occurs as a result of carotid artery blockage is an ischemic stroke. Due to plaque, and platelets that adhere to plaque, the carotid artery becomes partially, or entirely, blocked. The blockage cuts off blood supply to the brain, causing brain cell damage. Many individuals experience a “mini stroke” called a transient ischemic attack (TIA) prior to an ischemic stroke. TIA results from a temporary blockage of a small brain artery. In order to prevent an ischemic stroke and any cell damage from worsening, it is imperative to be seen by a medical provider if you have suffered symptoms of a stroke.
THE ANSWER YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR...
WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE SAVI?
MULTI-SPECIALTY PRACTICE – Our practice consists of both vascular interventionalists and vascular surgeons to allow us to completely treat our patients when it comes to vascular care.
OUTPATIENT SURGERY CENTER – Our facility is equipped with an outpatient surgery center that allows us to perform minimally invasive procedures in office.
ACR ACCREDITED ULTRASOUND FACILITY – We are proud to say that our office is an accredited ultrasound facility through the American College of Radiology
OUR #SAVISTAFF – From the time you walk in the door to the time you leave, our team is dedicated to making your experience here the absolute best.
Risk Factors for Carotid Artery Disease
While carotid artery disease develops over time, there are several risk factors that increase the chances of developing this disease. Risk factors include age, obesity, the use of tobacco products, sedentary lifestyle, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes.
The treatment goal for carotid artery disease is to cease the progressive nature of the disorder. Often times, lifestyle modifications will need to be made to decrease the chances of experiencing a stroke. Losing weight in a healthy manner with diet and exercise can help overweight individuals lower their chance of carotid artery disease worsening. Exercise and movement throughout the day help to increase blood flow and keep arteries functioning properly. Smoking and tobacco related products should be discontinued, as well. For people with diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure, these conditions will need to be monitored closely. Medication may be necessary to lower cholesterol levels, decrease blood pressure and appropriately manage diabetes.
Treatment Options for Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease is typically diagnosed after symptoms of a stroke occur. A specialist may check for carotid artery blockage by utilizing ultrasound, an x-ray scanner, a magnetic imaging test or a diagnostic test called cerebral angiography, that examines arteries up close.
Following carotid artery diagnosis, your provider will classify the level of artery blockage present. Based on how significant the blockage is and where it is located, a designation of mild, moderate or severe will be given. A mild carotid artery blockage is one that is 50 percent or less. A moderate blockage is categorized as 50-79 percent blocked, and a severe blocked artery is 80-99 percent obstructed.
Lifestyle changes, over the counter or prescription medications may be recommended for mild or moderate carotid artery disease. In more severe cases in which the blockage is significant, surgery may be suggested. A procedure called carotid endarterectomy is performed, in order to remove carotid artery plaque via incision. An alternative treatment option is for a stent to be placed through a needle puncture that will open the artery and eliminate the blockage entirely. Not every case of carotid artery disease requires surgery, or even interventional treatment. A qualified vascular specialist is vital in determining which course of treatment is best for your unique situation.
We Are Here To Help
At South Atlanta Vascular Institute, our practice consists of vascular interventionalists and surgeons who are able to expertly diagnose and treat patients suffering from carotid artery disease. Reach out today to schedule an appointment with one of our highly skilled vascular physicians.