Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease (CAD) occurs when the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits (atherosclerosis). This condition can significantly increase the risk of stroke and other serious complications. Here’s a more detailed look at carotid artery disease:
Symptoms of CAD may not always be present, particularly in its early stages. However, when symptoms do occur, they can manifest as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), often referred to as mini-strokes, which cause temporary symptoms like weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking. More severe symptoms include those of a full-blown stroke, such as sudden severe headache, confusion, trouble speaking or understanding, and vision problems. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, carotid Doppler ultrasound, CT or MR angiography, and sometimes carotid angiography to assess the extent of arterial blockage..
Symptoms
In its early stages, carotid artery disease often doesn’t produce any signs or symptoms. The condition may go unnoticed until it’s serious enough to deprive your brain of blood, causing a stroke or TIA.
Carotid artery disease may be asymptomatic, especially in its early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs): Often called mini-strokes, these are temporary periods of reduced blood flow to the brain, which can cause sudden, short-lived symptoms like weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.
- Stroke: A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked or reduced for an extended period, potentially causing permanent damage. Symptoms can include severe headache, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding, and vision problems.
