The carotid arteries are two blood vessels located on either side of the neck that provide the brain with sufficient levels of blood. Blockage of one or both of these arteries, a condition called coronary artery disease, can be life-threatening. Older adults with certain types of medical conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol or hypertension, are at an increased risk of developing a blocked carotid artery. Blocked carotid artery symptoms, which typically mimic the symptoms of stroke, require emergency medical care.
Weakness, Numbness or Paralysis
A blocked carotid artery limits the amount of blood that the brain receives. Insufficient levels of blood in the brain can prevent the normal transmission of nerve signals through the body. If this occurs, people with a blocked carotid artery may experience sudden sensations of weakness, numbness or tingling, which normally affects only one side of the body, the Texas Heart Institute reports. Certain people may be unable to voluntarily move their arm or leg due to paralysis. If these symptoms of a blocked carotid artery arise, affected people should be taken to an emergency medical provider as soon as possible.
Blurred Vision or Blindness
Poor blood flow to the brain can affect the function of the optic nerve, leading to symptoms of blurred vision or blindness, Stanford Hospital and Clinics reports. These symptoms may affect one or both eyes, depending upon the extent of carotid artery blockage. Vision changes can also contribute to sensations of dizziness, poor balance and decreased coordination. Vision problems are typically temporary and resolve once blood flow to the brain is restored.
Difficulty Speaking
Certain people may experience slurred speech or difficulty speaking as symptoms of a blocked carotid artery, the National Heart Lung Blood Institute warns. These symptoms can make it difficult for a person to explain what they are feeling to a family member, friend or coworker. Additionally, people with a blocked carotid artery may have difficulty understanding verbal commands or questions from other people.
Poor Coordination
Weakness or balance problems caused by a blockage in a carotid artery can cause coordination difficulties. Affected people may have trouble sitting, standing or walking without assistance.
Dizziness, Headache, Confusion or Fainting
Low blood pressure in the brain due to a blocked carotid artery can cause symptoms of dizziness, headache or confusion in affected people, according to Stanford Hospital and Clinics. Certain people may faint or lose consciousness due to decreased levels of blood in the brain. These symptoms may contribute to movement or coordination problems.
