What is Carotid Occlusive Disease?
The carotid arteries are blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. “Plaque,” or the buildup of fatty material, can result in narrowing, called a “stenosis” of the artery. Plaque particles that break lose are called “emboli, and these emboli can migrate to the brain, reducing its blood supply and resulting in a stroke. What are the Symptoms of Carotid Disease? The symptoms of carotid disease are the symptoms of a “mini-stroke” or “stroke.” A “mini-stroke” is also called a “transient ischemic attack” (TIA), which is a reversible neurologic deficit resolving in less than 24 hours. This can manifest as loss of vision in one eye (amarosis fugax), paralysis, weakness, numbness, or tingling on one side of the body, or slurred speech. When these symptoms resolve in less than 24 hours, this is termed a “TIA,” which is a harbinger of a stroke. When the neurologic deficit is established, lasting longer than 24 hours, this is termed a “stroke.” How do I know if I Have Carotid Occlu
