Carotid Stenosis
What is Carotid Stenosis
Carotid stenosis is a condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries, the major blood vessels located in the neck that supply blood to the brain. This condition can lead to reduced blood flow to the brain, potentially causing serious health issues such as stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). At Complex Health Solutions, we specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of carotid stenosis, providing comprehensive care to our patients.
Symptoms of Carotid Stenosis
Carotid stenosis often develops gradually over time and may not present noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the condition progresses, some individuals may experience the following signs and symptoms:
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Also known as a “mini-stroke,” a TIA is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. Symptoms can include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, blurred vision, and dizziness.
- Stroke: A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked, leading to cell damage or death. Common symptoms of a stroke include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, severe headache, trouble speaking or understanding speech, difficulty walking, and loss of coordination.
- Other symptoms: In some cases, carotid stenosis can cause a bruit, which is an abnormal sound heard over the carotid arteries with a stethoscope. Additionally, individuals may experience visual disturbances, such as blurring or loss of vision in one eye, known as amaurosis fugax.
It is essential to note that carotid stenosis may be asymptomatic in some individuals, making routine screenings and diagnostic tests crucial, especially for individuals at higher risk.
Treatment Options:
At Complex Health Solutions, our expert vascular specialists employ a comprehensive approach to the treatment of carotid stenosis. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the stenosis, the patient’s overall health, and individual risk factors. Common treatment options for carotid stenosis include:
- Lifestyle Modifications: Our medical professionals may recommend certain lifestyle changes to manage carotid stenosis. This can include adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and managing other medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
- Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage carotid stenosis. Antiplatelet drugs, such as aspirin or clopidogrel, can help prevent blood clots from forming. Cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins, may be used to control cholesterol levels and reduce plaque buildup in the arteries.
- Carotid Endarterectomy: This surgical procedure involves removing the plaque from the carotid artery to improve blood flow. It is typically recommended for individuals with severe carotid stenosis or those who have experienced symptoms. During the procedure, the narrowed portion of the artery is opened, and the plaque is carefully removed.
- Carotid Artery Stenting: In this minimally invasive procedure, a small mesh tube (stent) is inserted into the narrowed carotid artery to improve blood flow. The stent helps to hold the artery open and reduce the risk of future blockages.
Our highly skilled vascular specialists will conduct a thorough evaluation and work closely with each patient to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their unique circumstances