The carotid arteries of the neck carry oxygenated blood flow from the heart and body to the brain. Narrowing and blockages of the carotid arteries increase the risk of transient ischemic attacks, hemorrhages or bleeding and strokes. The Heart and Stroke Foundation explains that these arteries can become partially or completely blocked by blood clots and fatty plaques, calcium and scar tissue that causes stenosis or narrowing and hardening or atherosclerosis of the artery. Symptoms of carotid artery blockages or occlusions involve symptoms of transient ischemic attacks or mini-strokes and strokes, which require urgent medical care.
Dizziness and Confusion
Dizziness or vertigo and confusion are common symptoms of a decrease of blood flow to the brain due to a blockage in the carotid artery. The MayoClinic.com notes that confusion may also involve garbled or slurred speech or the inability to speak. Dizziness may be so severe that the individual may not be able to stand up or walk.
Headache Pain
The American Heart Association notes that a transient ischemic attack or a mini-stroke temporarily impedes the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Both a transient ischemic attack and a stroke can cause severe headache pain that is often likened to the "worst headache ever felt." Vomiting, nausea, a stiff neck, fainting or a temporary loss of consciousness may accompany headaches caused by an occlusion in the carotid artery.
Sight Problems
Carotid artery occlusions can cause problems with the eyesight such as blurred vision, seeing spots, sudden loss of sight in one eye or the inability to focus, as listed by the Texas Heart Institute. The eyelid may also droop or become weak and difficult to open.
Paralysis and Numbness
Numbness and paralysis are characteristic symptoms of a transient ischemic attack or stroke due to carotid artery occlusion. If the individual suffers a TIA, the paralysis and numbness are temporary and may last only a few hours to a few days, explains the Texas Heart Institute. However, in the case of a stroke, permanent and severe paralysis and nerve damage can occur causing lifelong disability. Paralysis or numbness can cause facial muscle drooping that is most apparent around the mouth area, impaired speaking and swallowing and difficulty walking and using the hand. In most cases of a stroke, these symptoms appear on one side of the body.
