What Is the Connection Between Carotid Artery Stenosis and Stroke?

Carotid arteries are major blood vessels present on either side of our neck. Their function is to deliver blood to our face and brain. The narrowing of these arteries due to fatty deposits (plaque) is termed as carotid stenosis. As per research, at least 10% of strokes are led by internal carotid stenosis. To understand the connection between carotid stenosis and stroke, let us learn more about this problem.

What Is Carotid Stenosis?

Carotid stenosis is a condition that causes the carotid arteries, the major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain, to narrow. This narrowing is usually caused by atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque consisting of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. Over time, this plaque can harden and reduce or block blood flow to the brain, leading to serious health concerns.

Who Is at Risk for Carotid Stenosis?

Though several factors influence the risk of carotid artery blockage, some people are more likely to develop this condition due to some biological and lifestyle-related changes. You could be at risk due to:

• Age: Older adults are more likely to develop carotid stenosis.
• High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can damage the arteries and contribute to plaque buildup.
• Smoking: Studies have found tobacco use to be a significant risk factor for clogged arteries.
• Diabetes: This condition can accelerate the process of atherosclerosis.
• High Cholesterol: The rise of cholesterol levels in the blood can lead to plaque formation.
• Family History: A genetic history of atherosclerosis or cardiovascular disease increases the risk. 

The above reasons can lead to the accumulation of fat and cholesterol in the carotid artery, which eventually leads to stroke.

What Is a Stroke?

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types of strokes:

• Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a clogging in a blood vessel supplying the brain. This type of stroke is fairly common.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by a blood vessel rupturing in the brain, leading to bleeding in or around the brain.

A stroke may often develop quickly or may take a few days or months to build. Let us see how carotid stenosis leads to it.

How Carotid Stenosis Causes Stroke?

The restricted carotid arteries can severely impact blood flow to the brain, posing significant risks. Here are the main ways in which carotid stenosis can result in a stroke:

• Reduced Blood Flow: Narrowing of the carotid arteries can lower blood flow to the brain, depriving it of necessary oxygen and nutrients.
• Blood Clots: Plaque buildup can cause blood clots in the carotid artery. If a clot gets loose, it can travel to the brain and block a smaller artery, causing an ischemic stroke. 

The above conditions can lead to a stroke. However, identifying some signs and symptoms can help us take steps to manage carotid stenosis.

The Symptoms of a Carotid Stenosis and Stroke

Recognizing the warning signs and symptoms of carotid stenosis is essential for containing severe complications such as stroke. Below are the key symptoms and warning signs to watch for:

• Sudden weakness or numbness: This often occurs in the face, arms, or legs, particularly on one side of the body, indicating a disturbance in normal blood flow to the brain.
• Trouble speaking or getting speech: Difficulty with speech or comprehension can signal that a part of the brain responsible for these functions is not receiving adequate blood supply. 
• Sudden vision problems: Vision loss or disturbances in one or both eyes can be a warning sign of reduced blood flow to the visual processing areas of the brain.
• Dizziness or loss of coordination: Experiencing sudden dizziness or difficulty maintaining balance may indicate that parts of the brain responsible for coordination are affected.
• Drooping of the face: A prominent symptom of stroke is a slump or fall on one side of the face due to an irregular blood supply in this area.

Earlier identification of the above symptoms enables us to find an immediate diagnosis of carotid artery blockage, potentially saving lives.

Diagnosis of Carotid Stenosis

Accurate diagnosis of carotid stenosis is important for effective treatment and reduction of stroke risk. Medical professionals use several methods to diagnose this condition:

• Physical examination: Doctors may listen for a whooshing sound (bruit) over the carotid artery, indicating turbulent blood flow.
• Ultrasound: The ultrasound test uses sound waves to create images of the carotid arteries and check the degree of stenosis.
• CT angiography (CTA): Combines X-ray technology with computer imaging to visualize the blood vessels in detail and detect blockages.
• Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA): It uses magnetic fields and radio waves to get images of the carotid arteries.

Treatment of Carotid Stenosis and Stroke

Carotid artery stenosis treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve blood passage to the brain, reducing the risk of stroke. A vascular surgeon or a specialist may help determine the best procedure. Here are the main treatment options available:

• Medication: Prescribing medicine and drugs to manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels to prevent blood clots.
• Lifestyle changes: Encouraging a healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and weight management to reduce risk factors.
• Carotid endarterectomy: A surgical procedure where the surgeon removes plaque buildup from the carotid artery to restore normal blood flow.
• Carotid artery stenting: Insertion of a small, expandable tube (stent) into the restricted artery to keep it open and improve blood flow.
• Management of stroke: In case of an acute stroke, treatments may include thrombolytic therapy (clot-busting drugs), mechanical thrombectomy (removing the clot with a device), and comprehensive stroke rehabilitation programs to aid recovery.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

If you experience any symptoms of carotid stenosis or suspect you might be at risk of a stroke, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately. 

Prompt Medical Intervention to Prevent Carotid Stenosis and Stroke

Carotid stenosis refers to the stiffening of carotid arteries (the primary blood vessels to the brain) due to the accumulation of fatty substances. This blockage inhibits proper blood supply, leading to severe conditions like stroke. Regular screenings can help detect carotid stenosis early, especially if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, or a family history of cardiovascular disease. Timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent a stroke.

Carotid Stenosis Specialists At North Atlanta Vascular Clinic

At North Atlanta Vascular Clinic, we specialize in the treatment and management of carotid stenosis. Our vascular surgeons are skilled in diagnosing all kinds of vascular conditions, finding effective treatment plans, and supporting you in gaining better health to help prevent a stroke. Book an appointment with us today.