Carotid artery disease often develops gradually and may not produce any noticeable symptoms until significant narrowing or blockage occurs. Many individuals remain unaware of their condition until they experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or a stroke, which can result from impaired blood flow to the brain. Recognizing the early signs and potential warning indicators of carotid artery disease is crucial for timely intervention.

Key symptoms to watch for include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Vision problems in one or both eyes
• A sudden severe headache with no known cause

If any of these symptoms appear, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention, as they could indicate an impending stroke.

At Vascular Associates of WNY, our team of expert carotid artery disease doctors employs advanced methods for screening and diagnosing this condition. Comprehensive carotid artery disease screening typically includes a physical examination and a thorough medical history review. Our doctors may employ diagnostic imaging tests to evaluate blood flow in the carotid arteries and identify potential blockages. Such tests may include:

• Doppler/Duplex Ultrasounds: This non-invasive test uses sound waves to create images of the arteries and assess blood flow.
• Angiography: A catheter is inserted into the femoral artery and guided to the carotid artery for a dye injection. X-ray images are then taken to visualize any blockages or narrowing in the arteries.
• Computerized Tomography (CT): This imaging test creates detailed images of the brain to identify any signs of a stroke or blood clots.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Similar to CT scans, this test produces images of the brain and can detect evidence of past strokes or blood clots.

For those diagnosed with carotid artery disease, various treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the condition and the presence of symptoms. Medical management begins with lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors, but carotid artery disease medication may also be prescribed. Common prescriptions include antiplatelet medications (like aspirin) to prevent blood clots, statins to lower cholesterol levels, and blood pressure medications to manage hypertension, all of which can contribute to overall vascular health.

In cases where significant blockage is present or there are severe symptoms, more invasive treatment options may be necessary, including:

• Carotid Endarterectomy: During the operation, the surgeon physically removes the plaque obstructing the artery and sews it back together, usually using a biologic patch. This approach helps restore normal blood flow and can significantly reduce the risk of stroke or other complications associated with carotid artery disease.
• Stenting: Stenting is a less invasive procedure where a small mesh tube is inserted into the carotid artery to keep it open. This technique often follows a carotid angioplasty, where a small balloon is inflated at the site of the blockage to widen the artery. The stent remains in place to ensure that the artery does not narrow again, providing continued blood flow to the brain.
• Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR): Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) is an innovative procedure that provides a new approach to treating carotid artery disease, particularly in high-risk patients. This minimally invasive technique involves accessing the carotid artery through a small incision in the neck. During the procedure, blood flow is temporarily redirected to protect the brain while the blockage is addressed, either by removing plaque or placing a stent.

Monitoring ongoing health and regular follow-ups post-treatment are essential for managing carotid artery disease effectively. Our dedicated team at Vascular Associates of WNY is ready to guide patients through every step, ensuring they are well-informed about their treatment options and have access to the most up-to-date care practices.