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Stroke is one of the leading killers in the US, and is often caused by carotid artery disease. Here’s a brief guide, outlining what the condition is and how to manage it successfully.
What is Carotid Artery Disease?
Before addressing the disease, it’s important to understand exactly what the carotid arteries are. The carotid arteries are two large arteries carrying the vast majority of the blood supply to your brain. As a child, it’s likely that your carotid arteries were wide and healthy, allowing blood to flow easily. However, as you age, it’s possible that these arteries become narrower, and in certain cases, this can restrict the flow.
The build-up of harmful fatty deposits in the arteries can also cause them to narrow, and it’s this process of the hardening and thickening of the walls that we call carotid artery disease.
Why Have You Got It?
As we age, it’s normal to develop a certain level of narrowing in the carotid arteries. However, certain lifestyle choices can cause the arteries to narrow significantly. These include:
– Smoking
– Obesity
– A sedentary lifestyle (not enough exercise)
– Diabetes
– High blood pressure
Having a family history of the condition can also increase your chances of developing it.
Is it Life-Threatening?
If left untreated, yes it certainly can be. If the blood flow to the brain is reduced significantly, this can bring about a stroke, which can kill you. However, carotid artery disease can be managed, with the help of a heart specialist.
Seeking Out the Right Medical Assistance
If you’ve got carotid artery disease and you’re concerned about your health, it’s time to make an appointment with a specialist cardiovascular center. Cardiovascular Solutions Institute specializes in carotid artery disease diagnosis and treatment and are on hand to help manage your condition. To get in touch, simply call 941 747 8789 today.