If you have been diagnosed with a condition such as carotid artery disease, it can be a frightening experience. Making the right treatment decision can be overwhelming. Many patients immediately think of surgery as their only option when they learn they have carotid artery disease. It is important for each patient to understand the various aspects of managing the condition and evaluate their options. Before undergoing surgery for carotid artery disease, it is also recommended to consider alternative treatments.

There are various conservative treatment options available for carotid artery disease. This condition occurs when the carotid arteries, the main blood vessels supplying blood to the brain, become clogged with plaques composed of cholesterol, calcium, fats, and other substances. If you wish to gain a better understanding of carotid artery disease, it is crucial to carefully read the following information.

What is Carotid Artery Disease & How Does it Actually Affect You?

The carotid artery is a type of blood vessel responsible for carrying blood to the brain. If these vessels become obstructed with plaque, it results in carotid artery disease. Plaques are made up of calcium, lipids, cholesterol, and other substances that block the arteries.

If you have carotid artery disease, it can restrict the delivery of oxygen to the brain as the carotid arteries supply blood to the brain. If pieces of plaque break off and reach the brain, they can result in a stroke or a transient ischemic attack.

Risk Factors That are Incorporated With Artery Disease

The primary cause of carotid artery disease is atherosclerosis, where plaque accumulates and narrows the arteries. Atherosclerosis is often associated with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and high cholesterol levels. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, alcohol consumption, and diet can also increase the risk of developing carotid artery disease.

Most people with carotid artery disease do not have any symptoms, but if it progresses it can lead to a stroke or TIA. Symptoms may include vision problems, difficulty speaking or slurred speech, and weakness or loss of movement in limbs. TIA symptoms are temporary and usually last for a few minutes to several hours. If you experience a TIA, it is important to seek immediate medical attention as it is a strong predictor of future strokes.

 Is Surgery Important for Carotid Artery Disease?

If you have experienced a TIA or stroke, or have a severely blocked carotid artery, you may benefit from surgery to remove the plaque, known as carotid endarterectomy.

The procedure is time-sensitive and should be performed soon after a TIA or stroke, to prevent future strokes. A skilled surgeon will make an incision below the jaw to access the carotid artery, carefully remove the plaque, and close the artery with a patch and sutures.

Another surgical treatment option for carotid artery disease is carotid artery stenting. This procedure involves a surgeon threading a catheter or tube through an artery in the arm or groin and guiding it to the carotid artery.

Is Carotid Artery Stenting Surgery Beneficial or Not?

Your doctor will discuss the advantages and risks of the procedure, which will vary depending on the severity of the condition and location of the blockage. Many people choose this procedure as it is considered less invasive and results in a quicker recovery with less pain.

This surgery reduces the risk of chronic infection and complications. Choosing it is a good option to resolve the issue effectively. For optimal results, it is important to choose a skilled and experienced doctor who can provide the best treatment and resolve the problem smoothly.

To ensure the best treatment for carotid artery disease, it is essential to choose a skilled and experienced doctor who provides personalized care. These experts can offer effective solutions that enhance overall health and well-being. To reduce the risk of carotid artery disease, it is important to adopt healthy habits such as avoiding alcohol and smoking and maintaining a balanced diet. Taking these steps can greatly reduce the chances of developing this condition.