What Are Blocked Neck Arteries?
Blocked neck arteries, also called carotid artery disease, happen when the blood vessels in your neck become narrow or clogged. These arteries, known as carotid arteries, carry blood to your brain. When they get blocked, your brain may not get enough blood. This can lead to serious problems, like a stroke. Carotid stenting is a treatment that helps open these blocked arteries. It can lower your risk of stroke and improve blood flow.
Symptoms and Risks
Often, blocked neck arteries do not cause symptoms at first. However, as the blockage grows, you may notice warning signs. For example, you might have:
Sometimes, these symptoms last only a few minutes. This is called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke. Even if symptoms go away, you should seek medical help right away. Blocked neck arteries increase your risk of a major stroke, which can cause lasting damage or even death. According to the CDC, stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide.
Causes of Carotid Artery Blockage
Carotid artery disease usually develops over time. The main cause is a buildup of fatty deposits, called plaque, inside the artery walls. This process is known as atherosclerosis. Several factors can raise your risk, such as:
Because these risk factors are common, it is important to know how to protect your arteries.
Diagnosis: How Doctors Detect Blocked Neck Arteries
Doctors use several tests to find blocked neck arteries. First, they may listen to your neck with a stethoscope for a whooshing sound, called a bruit. Next, they may order imaging tests, such as:
These tests help doctors decide if you need treatment for blocked neck arteries.
Carotid Stenting: What Is It and How Does It Work?
Carotid stenting is a minimally invasive procedure. During this treatment, a doctor inserts a thin tube, called a catheter, into a blood vessel in your groin or arm. Then, the doctor guides the catheter to the blocked neck artery. A small balloon is used to widen the artery. After that, a tiny metal mesh tube, called a stent, is placed to keep the artery open. This helps restore blood flow to your brain. Carotid stenting is often used when surgery is too risky or not possible.
Benefits and Risks of Carotid Stenting
Carotid stenting offers several benefits:
However, like any procedure, it has risks. For example, you may have:
Your doctor will discuss these risks and decide if carotid stenting is right for you. According to the American Heart Association, carotid stenting is a safe option for many patients.
Recovery and Lifestyle Tips After Stenting
After carotid stenting, most people go home within one or two days. To help your recovery, follow your doctor’s advice. For example:
In addition, making healthy lifestyle changes can protect your arteries. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking are important steps.
Prevention: How to Protect Your Neck Arteries
Even if you have not had carotid artery disease, you can take steps to lower your risk. Here are some tips:
By following these tips, you can help prevent blocked neck arteries and reduce your risk of stroke.
Consult a neurology specialist Dr. Venkateshwarlu Jampala for personalized advice on blocked neck arteries and carotid stenting.