The carotid arteries in the neck supply the brain. Narrowing from plaque raises the risk of stroke and may be found after a transient ischaemic attack or on a routine scan.
Symptoms
- May have no symptoms
- Temporary weakness or numbness on one side
- Temporary difficulty speaking
- Temporary loss of vision in one eye
Causes & risk factors
- Smoking
- High blood pressure and cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Age
Diagnosis
Narrowing is assessed by carotid Doppler, with CT or MR angiography to grade it when needed.
Treatment options
Medical therapy
Antiplatelet and cholesterol-lowering medication with blood-pressure control.
Carotid endarterectomy
Surgery to remove plaque from the artery in suitable cases.
Carotid stenting
An alternative in selected cases.
After treatment
The hospital stay after intervention is usually short, with ongoing medication and regular follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Does every narrowing need surgery?
No. It depends on the degree of narrowing and whether there are symptoms.
Surgery or stent?
Both aim to prevent stroke; the doctor chooses based on the anatomy and the patient's condition.
Is medication alone enough?
In some cases yes, especially mild narrowing without symptoms, with regular follow-up.
Content on this website is for awareness only and does not replace a specialist medical examination.