Cervical Carotid Artery Stenosis
Cervical carotid artery stenosis is a condition where the carotid arteries, located on each side of the neck, become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis). These arteries supply blood to the brain, and when they are narrowed, it can reduce blood flow and increase the risk of a stroke. The condition is often silent until it becomes severe.
Mild to moderate cervical carotid artery stenosis may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, in severe cases or when a stroke occurs, symptoms can include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Vision problems, such as blindness in one eye or blurred vision
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Severe headache (in cases of stroke)
Some people may experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also called a “mini-stroke,” which causes temporary stroke-like symptoms that resolve on their own.
What are the symptoms?
What are the causes and risk factors?
Cervical carotid artery stenosis is caused by the buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances in the arterial walls (plaque). Over time, this leads to narrowing and hardening of the arteries. Risk factors include:
Age
More common in people over 50
Smoking
Damages blood vessels and accelerates
plaque buildup.
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Puts stress on arterial walls.
High cholesterol
Leads to plaque formation.
Diabetes
Increases the risk of atherosclerosis..
Obesity and poor diet
Associated with increased cholesterol and blood pressure.
Family history
A genetic predisposition to atherosclerosis or heart disease.
What are the complications from the condition?
If untreated, cervical carotid artery stenosis can lead to serious complications, including:
- Stroke: A major risk when blood flow to the brain is reduced or a blood clot forms and blocks the artery.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain, often a warning sign of a future stroke.
- Brain damage: Lack of oxygen can cause permanent damage to brain tissue.
- Death: Severe strokes caused by carotid stenosis can be fatal.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves physical exams and imaging tests to assess blood flow and detect narrowing in the carotid arteries:
- Carotid Ultrasound: A non-invasive test that uses sound waves to measure blood flow and detect blockages.
- CT or MRI Angiography: Provides detailed images of the carotid arteries and the extent of narrowing.
- Cerebral Angiography: An invasive test where contrast dye is injected to view blood flow in the carotid arteries.
- Physical Exam: Listening for a "bruit" (an abnormal sound in the artery) with a stethoscope may indicate narrowing.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the narrowing and the risk of stroke. Options include:
- Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and managing risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol
- Medications: Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) to reduce the risk of blood clots, and statins to lower cholesterol
- Surgical Interventions
- Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA): A surgery to remove the plaque from the artery
- Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS): A minimally invasive procedure where a stent is placed to keep the artery open and improve blood flow
Frequently Asked Questions
Is carotid artery stenosis preventable?
Yes, by managing risk factors such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol.
Can carotid artery stenosis cause a stroke without warning?
Yes, some people may not have symptoms until a stroke or TIA occurs.
How effective is surgery for carotid stenosis?
Both carotid endarterectomy and stenting are highly effective in reducing the risk of stroke in patients with severe stenosis.
Can carotid artery stenosis be reversed?
Plaque buildup cannot be fully reversed, but medications, lifestyle changes, and surgical procedures can slow progression and improve blood flow.
Request an appointment or make an enquiry
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Mount Elizabeth Orchard
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
