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Carotid Artery Disease
Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck that supply the brain, from plaque build-up. It is an important, treatable cause of stroke.
Causes & risk factors
- Atherosclerosis
- High blood pressure and cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Ageing
Common symptoms
- Often no symptoms until a warning stroke
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side
- Slurred speech
- Sudden vision loss in one eye
- Dizziness
Tests & diagnosis
- Carotid Doppler ultrasound
- CT or MR angiography
- Lipid profile
- Blood sugar
Treatment & management
- Stopping smoking and controlling BP, cholesterol and diabetes
- Blood thinners / antiplatelet medicines
- Cholesterol-lowering medicines (statins)
- Surgery to clear the artery (carotid endarterectomy) for severe narrowing
- Carotid stenting in selected patients
When to see a doctor urgently
- Call emergency services immediately for face droop, arm weakness or speech problems (stroke signs)
- See a doctor if a neck bruit (sound) is found
- Seek urgent care for brief episodes of weakness or vision loss (mini-stroke)
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about carotid artery disease. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
What is a mini-stroke?
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) — brief stroke-like symptoms that recover but warn of a high stroke risk and need urgent assessment.
Does narrowing always need surgery?
No — mild narrowing is managed with medicines and lifestyle; surgery is for severe, especially symptomatic, narrowing.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.