Sudden weakness, dizziness, or blurred vision may signal carotid artery stenosis, a condition that narrows the arteries and increases stroke risk. Learn about its symptoms, causes, and treatments. Seek expert care at BM Birla Hospital in Kolkata.
Sudden weakness, dizziness, or blurred vision may signal carotid artery stenosis, a condition that narrows the arteries and increases stroke risk. Learn about its symptoms, causes, and treatments. Seek expert care at BM Birla Hospital in Kolkata.
Are you experiencing sudden weakness, dizziness, or blurred vision? These signs might indicate that you have carotid artery stenosis. This happens when your carotid artery becomes blocked or narrow This is from a build-up of plaque that blocks blood flow to your brain. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, like stroke. In this blog, we will discuss what carotid artery stenosis is, its symptoms, and treatment options. If you experience symptoms, don’t ignore them. You can consult the Best Cardiologist in Kolkata at BM Birla Hospital.
Carotid artery stenosis happens when the carotid arteries become narrow or blocked. These arteries are located on both sides of your neck. They carry oxygen-rich blood to your brain. The narrowing usually happens due to plaque build-up. Plaque is a mix of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. Over time, this plaque hardens and restricts the flow of blood. If a blood clot forms, it can travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
The tricky thing about carotid artery stenosis is that you might not notice any symptoms. It can happen quietly, without any warning. However, if the narrowing becomes severe or leads to a blockage, symptoms might show up. Here’s what you need to watch out for:
These symptoms can also be signs of a stroke. If you experience them, don’t wait. Seek medical attention immediately.
The primary cause is atherosclerosis, which is the build-up of plaque inside the arteries. This is caused by a few factors, such as:
Other lifestyle factors can play a role. A poor diet, lack of exercise, and too much alcohol can all increase your risk. But here’s the good news: you can manage many of these risk factors with the right lifestyle changes.
If you suspect something’s wrong with your arteries, it’s important to get checked out. There are a few ways doctors can diagnose carotid artery stenosis:
If your carotid arteries are narrowed, treatment is necessary. The goal is to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of stroke. There are two main treatment options: medications and surgery. Let's take a closer look.
For mild cases or to manage the condition, doctors might suggest medications. These can help control risk factors like high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Some common medications include:
While these medicines can help, they might not be enough if the blockage is severe.
If the narrowing is serious or has caused a stroke, surgery might be required. The two most common options are:
The decision between these two options depends on several factors, like the size of the blockage and your overall health. Your doctor will discuss the best choice for you.
Prevention is always better than treatment, right? There are several lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk of developing carotid artery stenosis:
Carotid artery stenosis might sound scary, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment, it’s manageable. If you’re at risk, it’s important to make healthy choices. Eat well, exercise, and take care of your heart. If you experience symptoms, don’t ignore them. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and get checked. Taking action now can help prevent a serious stroke down the line. Stay healthy, and take control of your well-being.
Yes, carotid artery stenosis can reduce blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of a stroke.
Surgery is typically considered when the blockage is 70% or more, especially if symptoms are present.
While the condition itself can’t be fully reversed, treatments can manage it and improve blood flow.
Warning signs include sudden weakness, trouble speaking, vision loss, dizziness, or a severe headache.
Yes, if untreated, it can lead to a stroke, which can be life-threatening.
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