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The carotid arteries run along both sides of your neck, delivering oxygen-rich blood to your brain. Carotid artery disease occurs when the buildup of cholesterol-based plaque causes the vessels to narrow. Carotid artery disease can cause dangerous health problems, including the slow deterioration of brain tissue due to a lack of oxygen and stroke.
Dignity Health’s cardiac care services are dedicated to keeping your heart beating strong. Our facilities in the Bay Area feature everything from the latest diagnostic testing to advanced operating rooms. If you are in need of treatment for carotid artery disease in the Bay Area, Dignity Health is here for you. Use our online Find a Doctor tool to locate a doctor near you.
Because carotid artery disease can often occur without symptoms, or have no noticeable symptoms, many people do not know they have it until it is advanced. The first sign of carotid artery disease many people experience is a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke. Sometimes, doctors discover carotid artery disease while listening to the heart during a routine physical exam. If your doctor suspects carotid artery disease, a vascular ultrasound can confirm its presence.
Carotid artery disease is caused by gradual buildup of fatty plaque along the walls of the arteries over time.
Factors that increase the risk of carotid artery disease include:
Our treatment and prevention strategies for carotid artery disease usually focus on reducing the buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries in order to prevent complications such as stroke. Your Dignity Health doctor may suggest the following treatments:
Lifestyle changes can also help slow the progression of the disease. Our doctors encourage you to:
Regardless of where you live in the Bay Area, Dignity Health’s heart care team can answer your questions with respect and compassion so that you feel comfortable and confident with your medical treatment.
Dignity Health offers expert cardiovascular care to diagnose and treat carotid artery disease in the Bay Area.