When diagnosed with carotid artery blockage, patients should explore treatment options without delay. According to the Texas Heart Institute, 900,000 people in the United States die each year from strokes and heart attacks, two results of blocked carotid arteries. This type of blockage occurs as a result of plaque adhering to artery walls, rendering the vessel diameter smaller than normal and preventing adequate blood flow.
Types of Treatment
Currently, patients have a choice of two types of treatment for carotid artery blockage: medications such as aspirin or angiotensin enzyme inhibitors--ACE inhibitors--or surgery in the form of carotid endarterectomy, angioplasty or stent placement. Choice of treatment relies on the severity of blockage and overall health of the patient.
Considerations
Choosing the right treatment for carotid artery blockage remains a decision best made by the patient and their physician. According to the Mayo Clinic, surgical repair of carotid artery blockage realizes success when performed on arteries that exhibit a blockage of 50 percent or more. Arteries exhibiting less than 50 percent blockage may benefit from treatment by medication alone.
Benefits
The relief of blockage of the carotid artery immediately allows the return of oxygen-rich blood flow to areas of the body, particularly the brain and heart. Long-term effects of unblocking arteries include a decrease in chances of future strokes or heart attacks.
Lifestyle Changes
According to the National Stroke Association, the following lifestyle changes will aid in the treatment of carotid artery blockage: stop smoking; eat a diet high in fiber and fruits while low in fats, salt and cholesterol; control such diseases as diabetes and high blood pressure and exercise at least 20 minutes daily. Lifestyle modification is a long-term treatment, as well as a method of preventing further blockages.
Outcomes of Treatment
With surgical intervention, the risk of heart attacks and strokes drops significantly. Patients diagnosed with narrowing of the carotid arteries of less than 50 percent will most likely benefit from drug therapy coupled with lifestyle modification. The prognosis in undiagnosed individuals suffering from a narrowing of the carotid arteries of more than 50 percent remains grim, and includes the possibility of strokes or transient ischemic attacks, also known as TIAs or "mini-strokes."
