Carotid Artery Disease
What Type of Doctor Treats Carotid Artery Disease?
Carotid artery disease affects the large arteries on either side of the neck. These arteries supply blood to the brain, face, and neck. Over time, plaque buildup can narrow or block these arteries, leading to serious health complications like strokes. Recognizing artery disease symptoms early is crucial for seeking proper medical care. Understanding carotid artery blockage treatment options is also essential for preventing severe outcomes.
What is Carotid Artery Disease?
Artery disease occurs when plaque, a combination of fat, cholesterol, and other substances, builds up in the carotid arteries. This narrowing of the arteries is known as carotid artery stenosis. Over time, the plaque can become unstable and rupture, leading to blood clots. These blood clots can travel to the brain and cause a stroke, one of the most severe complications of artery disease.
Carotid artery disease can develop slowly, often without symptoms. However, when the condition reaches a critical stage, it can cause significant health issues, including transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or full-blown strokes. This makes early diagnosis and carotid artery blockage treatment vital for those at risk.
Carotid Artery Disease Symptoms
In its early stages, the condition often shows no symptoms. This is why regular check-ups and monitoring are essential for individuals at high risk, such as those with a history of high cholesterol, smoking, or high blood pressure. However, some signs and symptoms of artery disease may become apparent as the disease progresses. These include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness, often on one side of the face or body.
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
- Sudden vision problem in one or both eyes.
- Dizziness or loss of balance & and coordination.
These symptoms can be warning signs of a TIA or stroke & should not be ignored. Immediate medical attention is crucial to minimize the risk of permanent damage.
How to Check for Carotid Artery Blockage?
If you suspect that you or someone else may have carotid artery disease, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. Early detection is critical to preventing serious complications. There are several methods that doctors use to check for carotid artery blockages:
- Physical Examination: A carotid artery doctor may use a stethoscope to listen to the arteries for a “bruit,” an abnormal whooshing sound that indicates narrowing.
- Carotid Ultrasound: This non-invasive test uses sound waves to create carotid artery images and detect blockages or narrowing.
- Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): This imaging test provides detailed pictures of blood vessels in the body and can help pinpoint areas of plaque buildup.
These diagnostic tools are crucial for assessing the extent of plaque buildup and determining the best course of action for treating carotid artery blockage.
Type of Doctor Who Treats Carotid Artery Disease
Depending on the severity of the condition and the specific treatment required, several types of specialists may be involved in treating artery disease.
Here are the primary types of doctors who specialize in managing artery disease:
- Vascular Surgeons: These experts treat diseases of the vascular system, including arteries and veins. They perform procedures such as carotid endarterectomy (removal of plaque) and stenting (inserting a small mesh tube to keep the artery open).
- Neurologists: These specialists focus on conditions affecting the brain and nervous system. Since the disease can lead to strokes, neurologists are often involved in managing this condition, mainly if neurological symptoms have already occurred. They collaborate closely with vascular surgeons to prevent further brain-related complications.
- Interventional Radiologists: They use imaging technologies to perform minimally invasive procedures. For patients who require stenosis treatments, interventional radiologists guide these procedures using advanced imaging techniques.
- Cardiologists: Although they focus on heart-related issues, cardiologists also manage various vascular conditions, including this disease. They can help manage risk factors like high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
- Primary Care Physicians: While they may not perform surgeries or specialized procedures, primary care physicians are often the first to detect signs of the condition. They can refer patients to the appropriate specialists and help manage risk factors.
Carotid Artery Disease Treatment Options
Treating artery disease depends on the severity of the blockage & the patient’s overall health. Here are some of the most common carotid artery disease treatment options:
- Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle modifications can significantly manage mild carotid artery stenosis. These changes include quitting smoking, adopting a healthy diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats, exercising regularly, and controlling conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
- Medications: Doctors may prescribe medications to minimize the risk of blood clots & slow the progression of plaque buildup. Commonly prescribed medications include antiplatelet drugs (such as aspirin), statins (to lower cholesterol), and antihypertensives (to control blood pressure).
- Carotid Endarterectomy: This surgery removes plaque buildup from the carotid artery to restore proper blood flow to the brain. It is typically advised for patients with moderate to severe carotid artery stenosis who have a high risk of stroke.
- Carotid Artery Stenting: For patients not good candidates for surgery, carotid artery stenosis treatments like stenting may be recommended. A small mesh tube, a stent, is placed in the artery to keep it open and prevent further blockage.
- Management of Risk Factors: Managing conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol can significantly reduce the risk of stroke & slow the progression of carotid artery disease. Doctors will often emphasize preventive care as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Diagnosis & Treatment of Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease is a severe condition that requires timely diagnosis & treatment to prevent life-threatening complications like stroke. Proper care and management can significantly improve vascular health and prevent severe outcomes. At Encino Vascular Institute, our team of experienced vascular specialists is committed to providing the highest level of care for individuals with artery disease. Contact us to book an appointment with our carotid artery doctor and explore the most effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can carotid artery disease be treated without surgery?
Yes, in some cases, artery disease can be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and monitoring, especially in mild to moderate cases.
What happens if carotid artery disease is left untreated?
Untreated artery disease increases the risk of stroke, which can result in permanent brain damage, disability, or even death.
Who is at high risk for carotid artery disease?
People with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, a history of smoking, or a family history of cardiovascular disease are at higher risk for artery disease.
Can I live with a 70% blocked carotid artery?
Carotid artery narrowing below 50% is often seen as a normal part of aging. When the narrowing reaches between 50% and 70%, the stroke risk is generally low, but regular monitoring is essential. Once the narrowing exceeds 70%, the stroke risk increases to 2-4% annually, which equates to a 10-20% chance over five years.
How can I naturally unblock my carotid artery?
You can’t fully unblock a carotid artery naturally. Still, you can prevent further blockages by following a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Incorporating stress reduction techniques like yoga and meditation is also beneficial. Always consult your doctor, as significant blockages may need medical intervention.
