Narrowed neck artery (carotid stenosis)

Overview

The carotid arteries in the neck carry blood to the brain. Plaque can narrow them and break off, causing a stroke.

A mini-stroke (TIA) with brief weakness or vision loss is a major warning sign.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Narrowed neck artery

Less common

• Brief vision loss in one eye
• Usually no symptoms

Look up a symptom: Blurry vision · Dizziness

When to get medical care

Causes

Plaque.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Smoking

Possible complications

• Stroke

Diagnosis

An ultrasound.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Carotid ultrasound:

Treatment

Lower risk.

Self-care

• Don't smoke
• Control blood pressure
• Take your statin and blood pressure medicines

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Control cholesterol and blood pressure

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a vascular specialist (blood vessel doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Smokers and people with diabetes: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Treatment greatly lowers stroke risk.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I need surgery or a stent?
• How often should I be checked?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Narrowed neck artery (carotid stenosis)