What is carotid artery stenosis?

Carotid artery stenosis is a condition where the main arteries in the neck become narrowed. These arteries carry oxygen-rich blood to the brain, which is essential for normal function.

Narrowing occurs when fatty deposits build up along the artery walls. Over time, this can slow or block blood flow and increase the risk of a stroke.

 Common causes and risk factors include:

• Buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis)
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Excess body weight
• Lack of regular exercise
• Family history of heart or vascular disease
• Aging

Symptoms

Carotid artery stenosis often develops quietly and may not cause symptoms right away. In many cases, the first warning sign is a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke.

Symptoms may include:

• Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
• Trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Blurred or lost vision in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Severe headache without a clear cause

These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will begin with a physical exam and review your medical history. They may listen to the blood flow in your neck for unusual sounds that suggest narrowing.

Imaging tests are commonly used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the blockage. These may include:

• Ultrasound to check blood flow
• CT or MRI scans for detailed images
• Angiography to closely examine the arteries

How is it treated?

Treatment focuses on lowering stroke risk and improving blood flow.

Early treatment options often include:

• Healthy eating habits to lower cholesterol
• Regular physical activity
• Quitting smoking
• Managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight

Medications may be prescribed to:

• Prevent blood clots
• Lower cholesterol levels
• Control blood pressure

For more advanced narrowing:

• Carotid endarterectomy: a procedure to remove plaque from the artery
• Angioplasty and stenting: a minimally invasive option to open and support the artery

Recovery depends on the severity of the condition and whether a stroke has occurred. Many people can manage the condition successfully with early treatment and lifestyle changes.