• 1840 Mease Drive, Suite 319, Safety Harbor, Florida 34695
  • Mon - Fri: 8:00am - 5:00pm

Under the expert guidance of our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Mark Zuzga, our team of Vein Specialists & Vascular Experts are committed to delivering top-tier outpatient vascular & vein evaluation and treatment throughout the greater Tampa & West Florida surrounding areas. Should you find yourself dealing with leg pain, swelling, ulcers, discoloration, or the appearance of spider and varicose veins, we invite you to request a screening today

Request Vein Screening
Request Artery Screening

Office Hours

Mon - Fri:8:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday:Office Closed
Sunday:Office Closed
+(727) 712-3233
info@wfvav.com

Carotid Artery Disease

What Is Carotid Artery Disease?

If not addressed promptly, the build-up of plaque can potentially lead to a stroke by limiting the blood flow to the brain.

Carotid Artery Disease is a serious health condition where the carotid arteries, the two main blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the brain, become narrowed or blocked. This narrowing or blockage is typically caused by the build-up of plaque – a mixture of fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances in the blood. Over time, this plaque can harden and reduce the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain. If left untreated, Carotid Artery Disease can potentially lead to a stroke, a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced.

  • Fact: Approximately 400,000 people in the United States are newly diagnosed with carotid artery disease.
  • Fact: It is estimated that 27.6% of people between the ages of 30 and 79 have increased carotid intima-media thickness, a risk factor for carotid artery disease.
  • Fact: Studies show that the prevalence of carotid stenosis, a form of carotid artery disease, is higher among people aged 70 years and older.
  • Fact: Men younger than age 75 have a greater risk than women in the same age group, but women have a greater risk than men older than age 75.
  • Fact: Atherosclerosis, which can lead to carotid artery disease, typically starts in the teens and 20s, and changes can be seen in most people by their 30s

What Causes A Blocked Carotid Artery?

A blocked carotid artery, a condition often referred to as carotid artery disease, is primarily caused by atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is a process where fatty deposits, or plaques, build up in the walls of arteries. These plaques can narrow or even completely block the carotid arteries, reducing blood flow to the brain and increasing the risk of stroke.

Several factors contribute to the development of atherosclerosis including:

  • High levels of certain fats and cholesterol in the blood
  • High blood pressure & diabetes
  • Smoking & obesity
  • Physical inactivity
  • Family history of atherosclerosis.
  • Age is also a significant risk factor, with the chances of developing atherosclerosis increasing as one gets older.

It’s important to note that while these are common contributing factors, a blocked carotid artery can occur in anyone, and it’s possible for individuals without these risk factors to develop the disease.

Schedule A Vascular Ultrasound

Can Carotid Artery Disease Be Prevented?

Yes, carotid artery disease can often be prevented or its progression slowed down by adopting certain lifestyle modifications and adhering to prescribed medical treatments

Lifestyle changes are an essential part of prevention. These include quitting smoking, maintaining a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium, and engaging in regular physical activity. Maintaining a healthy weight and effectively managing conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes are also critical for prevention.

Medical therapy can play a significant role in preventing carotid artery disease as well. Doctors may recommend antiplatelet medications such as aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix) to decrease the risk of stroke caused by blood clots. In some cases, surgery or less invasive procedures like carotid angioplasty and stenting might be recommended to treat severe blockages

What Are The Signs Of a Carotid Artery Blockage?

Schedule A Vascular Ultrasound
Regrettably, it’s possible for an individual to have carotid artery disease without displaying any noticeable symptoms.

However, one of the warning signs of the presence of carotid artery disease is the experience of a “mini-stroke”, medically known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA). During a TIA, a person may temporarily suffer from a series of symptoms.

These can include:

  • Vision loss in one or both eyes
  • One-sided numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg
  • Trouble comprehending spoken language & Speech difficulties
  • Loss of coordination, disorientation, dizziness, confusion
  • Problems with swallowing
  • Ringing in the ears

The duration of these episodes can vary, lasting from mere minutes to potentially up to 24 hours. Should you have encountered any symptoms associated with a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), it’s strongly advised to undergo vascular screening promptly. This can help determine if there’s any obstruction in your carotid artery. The condition of blocked carotid arteries tends to deteriorate over time, escalating the risk of a stroke. Such an occurrence could prove to be life-threatening or result in lifelong disability.

How To Diagnose & Treat A Blocked Carotid Artery?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a blocked Carotid Artery, you’re not alone and there are effective treatment options available.

The diagnosis of carotid artery disease typically involves two essential procedures: Carotid Ultrasound and Carotid Angiography. The Carotid Ultrasound is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to visualize the blood flow and detect any blocks or narrowing in the carotid arteries. On the other hand, Carotid Angiography provides a more detailed view of the arteries. It involves injecting a contrast dye into the blood vessels and taking X-ray images to highlight any abnormalities.

For the surgical treatment of carotid artery disease, angioplasty and stenting are commonly employed procedures. However, a revolutionary method known as TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) has gained prominence recently. In TCAR, a small incision is made just above the collarbone to directly access the carotid artery. A tube is then inserted into the artery to temporarily redirect the blood flow away from the brain, protecting it from dislodged plaque fragments. While the blood is being redirected, a stent is placed inside the artery to stabilize the plaque, thereby preventing future strokes. This innovative procedure reduces the risk of stroke during the surgery and optimizes patient outcomes.

With the latest technology and techniques at his disposal, Dr. Zuzga is committed to providing each patient with personalized care, helping them navigate their treatment journey with confidence and support.

To get started, schedule your Vascular Ultrasound today.

Schedule A Vascular Ultrasound
See Carotid Artery Treatment

Contact Us

No one needs to suffer from untreated varicose vein disease or arterial related diseases anymore. In addition, with today’s favorable insurance coverage, the procedures are even more accessible. If you have a vein problem, contact us today.

Telephone: (727) 712-3233
Facsimile: (727) 712-1853
Email: Contact Us Online

Copyright 2024 West Florida Vascular & Vein | All Rights Reserved | Site by Damonaz Design