Carotid arteries are the primary blood supply to the brain. When plaques in a carotid artery develop, it can cause vision loss or stroke, which can be severely disabling or even fatal.
Your specialist will perform a comprehensive review of all risk factors and discuss how to optimise them to the risk of complications from carotid artery disease.
If carotid artery disease is mild and you have no complications, your specialist will monitor the plaque with period ultrasound examinations.
Significant carotid artery disease, which poses a risk of stroke or vision loss, is treated by either an endovascular stent or by cleaning the artery surgically with a carotid endarterectomy procedure.
Plaque deposited in the arteries can be influenced by the foods we eat. A dietitian can provide a personalised easy-to-follow nutrition plan as part of your care.
Sudden loss of vision in an eye (temporary or permanent), weakness or numbness in arms, legs or face, or speech disturbance, could be a sign of carotid artery disease. Your AVC specialist will perform a comprehensive assessment, including imaging of the carotid arteries to determine if you have carotid artery disease.
Carotid artery disease can cause permanent stroke, vision loss, or even be fatal. However, not all plaques are dangerous and your specialist will discuss this will you during the consultation.
Whilst medical control of risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol are critical, when carotid plaques cause symptoms or are severe, stenting or surgery may be required to minimise your risk of complications.
