Carotid Artery Disease & Stroke Prevention with Dr. Ross
Dr. Ross provides evaluation and treatment for carotid artery disease with an emphasis on identifying circulation problems that may increase the risk of stroke. Care is tailored to each patient’s medical history, symptoms, and cardiovascular risk factors.
Early evaluation can help identify narrowing of the carotid arteries and determine whether monitoring, medical management, or additional treatment may be appropriate.
Comprehensive Carotid Artery Care with Dr. Ross
Carotid artery disease develops when plaque accumulates inside the arteries that carry blood to the brain. As these arteries become narrowed, blood flow may be reduced and the risk of stroke can increase. Because carotid artery disease may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, evaluation can be especially important for patients with certain cardiovascular risk factors.
Dr. Ross evaluates carotid artery health using appropriate diagnostic testing, which may include carotid ultrasound and additional vascular imaging when necessary. The results help determine the degree of narrowing and guide an individualized approach to treatment and ongoing monitoring.
Treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the patient’s overall health. Recommendations may include managing blood pressure and cholesterol, avoiding tobacco, making appropriate lifestyle changes, taking prescribed medications, and undergoing regular surveillance. For more significant carotid artery narrowing, procedural or surgical treatment may be considered.
If you have risk factors for carotid artery disease or have already been diagnosed with carotid artery narrowing, request an appointment with Dr. Ross to discuss your vascular health and treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is carotid artery disease?
Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque builds up inside one or both carotid arteries, which are major blood vessels that deliver blood to the brain. Significant narrowing can interfere with blood flow and increase the risk of a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke.
How does Dr. Ross evaluate carotid artery disease?
Evaluation may include a review of your symptoms, medical history, and cardiovascular risk factors along with diagnostic imaging. A carotid ultrasound is commonly used to assess blood flow and identify narrowing. In some cases, additional imaging such as CT angiography may be recommended.
Can carotid artery disease be treated without surgery?
Yes. Depending on the severity of the narrowing and other individual factors, carotid artery disease may be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and ongoing monitoring. When narrowing becomes more significant or presents a higher risk, Dr. Ross may discuss procedural or surgical treatment options.
What are the warning signs of a stroke?
Stroke symptoms can include sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, particularly on one side of the body; difficulty speaking or understanding speech; sudden vision changes; difficulty walking or loss of balance; or a sudden severe headache. These symptoms require immediate emergency medical attention.
Who may need evaluation for carotid artery disease?
Evaluation may be appropriate for certain patients based on their symptoms, medical history, physical examination, or cardiovascular risk factors. These can include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, tobacco use, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or a history of TIA or stroke. Dr. Ross can determine whether carotid artery testing is appropriate based on your individual circumstances.
How is carotid artery disease treated?
Treatments include carotid endarterectomy, transfemoral stenting or a newer technique – TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR). Dr. Ross will discuss which options may be right for you.