Carotid Atherosclerotic Disease

Carotid atherosclerotic disease occurs when the carotid arteries in the neck become narrowed or blocked due to fatty deposits called plaque. These arteries are essential for supplying blood and oxygen to the brain, and narrowing can reduce blood flow, increasing the risk of stroke. Plaque buildup is often caused by risk factors such as smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, high blood pressure, diabetes, and aging. Sometimes, pieces of plaque can break off and block smaller arteries in the brain, leading to a stroke, which may cause weakness, speech difficulties, vision loss, or paralysis. Early warning signs, including brief episodes of weakness or vision changes known as transient ischemic attacks, should never be ignored. Treatment focuses on lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. In more severe cases, interventions like carotid endarterectomy or carotid stenting may be performed to restore proper blood flow and prevent strokes.