Humans have carotid arteries on each side of the neck. These arteries deliver blood up from the aorta in the chest to the neck, and then the brain. Thus, the carotid arteries are the brain's pathway for blood and oxygen. Throughout a person's lifespan, plaque---a sticky substance of cholesterol and fibrous material---begins to accumulate in the arteries, which significantly narrows vessels and reduces blood flow (atherosclerosis). This carotid artery disease is serious because it can lead to stroke. The Society for Vascular Surgery states that around 10 percent of people in their eighties have this condition.
Transient Ischemic Attack
In some cases, an individual may experience temporary stroke symptoms before having a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or stroke that indicates an arterial occlusion.This temporary or "small" stroke is known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), in which the symptoms of a stroke are transient or temporary. Specifically, the symptoms of a TIA typically resolve within 24 hours. The term ischemic refers to a lack of blood or an insufficient amount of blood (thus, oxygen) to an organ. TIA symptoms may consist of dizziness with a sudden or abrupt numbness, tingling or weakness in the extremities as well as in the face (facial droopiness). Such symptoms generally affect one side of the body. As a result, movement of the affected arm or leg is impaired and the patient experiences obvious difficulty with speech. Other symptoms of a TIA may include an abrupt problem with vision and coordination. An acute and severe headache may be reported. Immediate medical attention should be sought if symptoms persist beyond a 24 hour period.
Bruit
Some individuals, during a physical exam, may exhibit with what is called a bruit, specifically, a swooshing sound heard with a stethoscope. This can be an indicator of reduced or disturbed blood flow; however, this sign is not present in all people with carotid artery disease. Conversely, its presence does not automatically mean a major condition.
Stroke
Ischemic CVAs, unfortunately, may be the ultimate sign of vascular problems, thus, it is likely that a carotid artery constriction or blockage will be found after a stroke occurs. Again, the symptoms of a stroke are similar to that of a TIA except they remain: sudden weakness or paralysis, numbness or tingling on one side of the body including the face; vision or hearing problems; dizziness with a lack of balance that may lead to a fall; problems with speech or comprehension. Medical care is crucial since an area of the brain may be damaged if the occlusion is not rectified quickly.
