Disease 3: Carotid Artery Disease/Carotid Artery Stenosis
Carotid artery disease, also known as carotid artery stenosis, is a specific form of atherosclerosis that affects the carotid arteries. These arteries are located on either side of the neck and are responsible for supplying blood to the brain. When plaque builds up in the carotid arteries, it can reduce or block blood flow, increasing the risk of stroke.
Risk factors for carotid artery disease include age, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and a family history of atherosclerosis. Often, carotid artery disease does not cause symptoms until a significant blockage occurs, leading to a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or a full-blown stroke. Symptoms of a TIA or stroke may include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, vision problems, dizziness, and severe headache.
Treatment for carotid artery disease focuses on reducing the risk of stroke and may involve lifestyle changes, medications to control risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol, and in severe cases, surgery to remove the plaque or widen the artery. (3)
