Carotid Stenosis

Carotid Stenosis

TIt is a narrowing of the carotid artery. This artery is the main artery that carries oxygenated blood to the brain. Aortic stenosis occurs in 5 out of 1,000 people 50 - 60 years old and is more common in 100 out of 1,000 people older than 80.

cause
The cause is usually the accumulation of fat called plaques (in the blood vessels). A less common cause is an aneurysm. Inflammation of the arteries (arteritis) and rupture (dissection) of the carotid arteries. Fibromuscular dysplasia, tissue damage after radiation. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking.

symptom

Most people do not have any symptoms until the degree of narrowing is severe. and may also experience cerebrovascular stenosis, known as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). Most TIAs last less than 10 minutes and are caused by a momentary pause in blood flow to one part of the brain. Symptoms depend on which arteries are affected. Common symptoms of TIA include weakness or numbness on one side of the face or body (face, arms, legs), vision changes, confusion, slurred speech, and trouble swallowing.

diagnosis
The doctor made a diagnosis based on a medical history and a careful neurological examination. examination of the carotid artery with a stethoscope Abnormal blood flow called carotid bruit, lab tests to measure lipid (cholesterol, triglyceride) and blood sugar levels, and a doctor ultrasound of the carotid arteries to assess the degree of narrowing of the carotid arteries. Angiography and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) may be necessary prior to surgery to assess and determine the location of the blood vessels prior to surgery by a neurosurgeon. vascular surgeon)

treatment

Treatment depends on the degree of stenosis and symptoms. It can be treated with medication or surgery. including reducing the risk (quit smoking Controlling high blood lipids and diabetes) and low-dose aspirin (81 or 325 mg daily). A narrowing surgery called carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is usually performed in 70% to 99% of people with symptoms and atherosclerosis. People with a life expectancy of more than 5 years The surgeon performing the CEA plays an important role in determining the success of the surgery.

Things to do

Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables and nuts, limit fat, avoid processed foods.

don't do

Do not ignore the symptoms. If symptoms do not improve or get worse after treatment or new symptoms

Do not stop taking the drug or change the dose. Even feeling better unless the doctor allows.

Do not use any medication (including over-the-counter and herbal products) without consulting a doctor.

Do not use tobacco products because of the risk of stroke.