Carotid Artery Disease
The carotid arteries, located on both sides of your neck next to your windpipe, are responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to your brain. When plaque or calcifications build up inside these arteries, it leads to a condition called carotid artery stenosis — a narrowing that can significantly reduce blood flow to the brain. This can increase the risk of stroke or transient stroke-like symptoms, such as:
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Drooping on one side of the mouth (especially when smiling)
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Vision changes
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
If you are experiencing any symptoms of a stroke, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Time is critical in preventing long-term damage.
Some risk factors of developing carotid artery disease:
- Age
- Chronic kidney disease
- Smoking
- Diabetes mellitus
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Fibromuscular dysplasia (a condition that causes abnormal growth in the artery walls)
Screening and Diagnosis
Carotid artery stenosis may not always cause noticeable symptoms. Many patients are diagnosed during routine screenings or imaging for other conditions. It’s important to discuss your personal risk factors with your healthcare provider. Early detection through carotid ultrasound or other imaging studies can help prevent serious complications.
Treatment at Rex Vascular Specialists
At Rex Vascular Specialists, our experienced vascular surgeons offer both surgical and non-surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s specific condition and risk profile.
Conservative Management
For patients with asymptomatic (not showing any symptoms) carotid artery disease with mild narrowing (less than 70 percent stenosis), we often begin with lifestyle changes and medical management, which may include:
- Cholesterol-lowering medications (statins)
- Blood pressure control
- Antiplatelet medications
- Smoking cessation
- Diet and exercise modifications
- Surveillance with duplex imaging (ultrasounds) to follow possible progression of disease
Surgical Options
Surgeons at Rex Vascular Specialists are leading the country in the techniques that correct carotid artery stenosis through research and clinical practice. If intervention is required (symptomatic carotid stenosis or asymptomatic carotid stenosis greater than 80 percent), we offer the full range of advanced surgical treatments, including:
- Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA) – a traditional open surgery to remove plaque
- Carotid Artery Stenting – a less invasive approach using a stent to keep the artery open
- TCAR (TransCarotid Artery Revascularization) – a hybrid procedure that combines the benefits of open and minimally invasive techniques with reduced stroke risk
Your Care Journey
Many patients are referred to our office after being diagnosed through a screening or imaging study. Whether you're here for an evaluation, ongoing monitoring or a procedure, we are committed to providing comprehensive, personalized care.
If surgery is recommended, our team will ensure you are fully informed and prepared for what to expect before, during and after your procedure. Postoperative care includes:
- Routine follow-up visits
- Regular imaging (typically ultrasound)
- Ongoing medication management
Your long-term health and stroke prevention are our top priorities. Taking prescribed medications exactly as directed is a crucial part of managing this condition and preventing complications.
If you have risk factors or concerns about carotid artery disease, talk to your primary care provider or reach out to Rex Vascular Specialists for a thorough evaluation.
