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FAQs on Carotid Artery Disease/ Carotid Stenosis

By Medical Expert Team

Feb 01 , 2018 | 1 min read

1. What are carotid arteries?

These are two large tubes which take blood from the heart to the brain through the neck. You can feel them pulsating in the neck if you press lightly (only one side) just away from the midline.

carotid arteries

2. What is carotid stenosis?

Over time cholesterol may get deposited in the arteries and form a plaque which tends to block the flow of blood. As this plaque keeps getting bigger the artery may get completely blocked or occluded.

3. What are the risk factors for carotid stenosis?

High blood pressure, Cholesterol Diabetes, Obesity and smoking are some of the risk factors.

4. Do I need to get my carotids fixed?

Dr. Chandril Chugh, Senior Consultant & Head – Interventional Neurology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, says not all carotid stenosis need procedural treatment, in fact, most don’t. Treatment depends on a lot of factors like age, sex, risk factors and symptoms.

5. Does carotid stenosis increase my risk of stroke?

Yes, it does.

6. Can it be controlled by medicines only?

Yes, of course.

7. If I need a procedure for carotid stenosis what options do I have?

Carotid Stenting and Carotid endarterectomy (open surgery) are two options available.

8. I am scared of open surgery, what do I do?

Endovascular minimally invasive surgical options can be used to do carotid stenting.

9. How long do I have to stay in the hospital?

Stay usually lasts for about 2 days. It may change depending on the clinical condition of the patient.