A carotid artery screening is a short ultrasound procedure to evaluate the carotid arteries—located in the neck—for obstructions or blockages. Blockages of the carotid artery can lead to a stroke if not detected and treated.
What is carotid artery disease?
Carotid artery disease occurs when the main blood vessels to the brain, called the carotid arteries, develop a buildup of plaque due to atherosclerosis ("hardening of the arteries"). This is similar to the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries that can cause heart attacks. If the buildup of plaque in the carotid arteries impairs the flow of blood to the brain, a stroke can occur.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is when the flow of blood to the brain is disrupted, and damage to the brain occurs. Depending on the severity, a stroke can cause paralysis, speech difficulties, visual problems or even death. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of adult disability.
Who is at risk?
If you have a history of one or more of the following, you may be at risk for carotid artery disease and stroke:
What are the symptoms of a stroke?
-
Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
-
Difficulty speaking or understanding
-
Clumsiness or loss of coordination
-
Sudden loss of vision in one eye or the other
A stroke requires emergency treatment, and immediate attention can minimize brain damage and disability. If you experience symptoms, call 911.
What treatment is available for carotid artery disease?
For severe cases of carotid artery disease, a surgical procedure called a carotid endarterectomy may be recommended. For less severe cases, lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation and medical treatment to manage conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease may reduce your risk of stroke.
How can I determine my risk for carotid artery disease?
A carotid artery screening—a simple ultrasound procedure that usually takes about 15 minutes—can help determine whether you currently have or are at risk for carotid artery disease. While this wellness screening does not require a referral order from a physician, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about your health status and risk factors for stroke. The cost for this screening is $45.00.
To schedule a carotid artery screening, call 888.364.6400 (364.6400)