The buildup of plaque in your neck arteries is also called carotid artery stenosis. According to the Mayo Clinic, the carotid arteries are two blood vessels that run along either side of your neck to supply blood to your head and brain. The carotid arteries are the most commonly infiltrated blood vessels in your neck. Symptoms of plaque buildup in your neck arteries include sudden weakness or numbness affecting your face, leg or one side of your body. You can also have slurred speech and become blind in one of your eyes. There are specific steps to reduce plaque in your neck arteries.
Step 1
Make lifestyle changes. The Mayo Clinic suggests you quit smoking, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limit sodium and exercise daily for at least 30 minutes. These simple tasks can reduce the build up fatty plaques in your neck arteries.
Step 2
Go to your doctor and obtain a prescription for blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or blood pressure medication such as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor if you have high blood pressure. Blood-thinning medications prevent clot formation in your vessels, and medications such as ACE inhibitors lower your blood pressure.
Step 3
Go to your surgeon and schedule a carotid endarterectomy or carotid angioplasty and stenting. A carotid endarterectomy involves cutting your neck and directly removing the fatty plaque from your neck artery. Carotid angioplasty and stenting involves inserting a small balloon into your neck artery to unclog the region where the fatty plaque is deposited. A stent is then threaded into your neck artery to keep it open. Discuss with your surgeon which option is best for you.
