Found in the neck, the carotid arteries supply oxygen rich blood to the brain. The arteries lie on each side of the jaw and run down the side of the neck. Some individuals experience a narrowing of these arteries because of plaque buildup. Also, a blood clot can block the artery and decrease blood flow to the brain. This condition, referred to as carotid artery disease, causes transient ischemic attacks, TIAs, or a stroke. The symptoms of these conditions are similar, but the symptoms associated with a TIA resolve within an hour, according to MayoClinic.com.
Weakness and Paralysis
Transient ischemic attacks and strokes can cause weakness or paralysis in the extremities and face. The muscular weakness usually occurs on one side of the body and can affect walking. The individual can have difficulty controlling the movement of the weakened extremity. The affected side may also experience numbness and tingling, according to the Texas Heart Institute. The decrease in normal sensation may change the way the person perceives pain, temperature and external stimuli. Weakened muscles or paralysis can cause a loss of control over the bowels and bladder.
Slurred Speech and Difficulty Swallowing
Individuals can have trouble with speech and swallowing normally. Slurred speech or garbled speech is common, according to the MayoClinic.com. The affected individual may experience a change in taste sensation.
Dizziness and Headache
A sudden dizziness and vertigo can occur with a blocked or narrowed carotid artery. The individual may also have problems with coordination and balance. A severe headache that begins suddenly with no known cause is another symptom of a blocked carotid artery, according to the Texas Heart Institute.
Vision Changes
Several vision changes are possible with a stroke or a TIA. The individual have double vision or blindness. The vision problems can affect one or both eyes. Some people describe a loss of vision equal to a sensation of a window shade lowering to block vision, according to VascularWeb.
Mental Changes
Individuals with a lack of oxygen to the brain because of a blocked carotid artery can experience an altered mental status. Mental changes in the brain may include personality changes, confusion and mood swings, according to MedlinePlus. Some individuals experience a decreased level of consciousness that varies between drowsiness and a coma. People may also have trouble understanding what people are saying to them.
