When it comes to preventing stroke and protecting brain health, early detection and treatment of carotid artery disease are crucial. At Burjeel Medical City, our specialized vascular team offers cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments to reduce stroke risk and ensure optimal blood flow to your brain.
Understanding Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease (CAD) occurs when the vital arteries that deliver blood to your brain become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). This restriction of blood flow significantly increases your risk of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors contribute to the development of carotid artery disease:
- Atherosclerosis: The primary cause, involving fatty deposits (plaque) building up in artery walls
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Increases stress on arterial walls
- High Cholesterol & Diabetes: Accelerate plaque formation
- Smoking: Damages blood vessels and increases plaque accumulation
- Obesity & Sedentary Lifestyle: Contribute to cardiovascular complications
- Genetics & Family History: Increase vascular disease risk
- Age (Over 55 years): Risk increases with advancing age
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Carotid artery disease may not cause symptoms until a stroke or TIA occurs. Watch for these warning signs:
- Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs—typically on one side
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech (slurred speech)
- Vision problems, including blurred or temporary blindness in one eye
- Dizziness or loss of balance while walking
- Severe headache with no known cause
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a critical warning sign. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
State-of-the-Art Diagnostic Capabilities
Early detection is vital for effective treatment. At Burjeel Medical City, we employ advanced diagnostic technologies:
- Carotid Ultrasound (Doppler Scan): Non-invasive evaluation of blood flow and plaque detection
- CT Angiography (CTA) & MR Angiography (MRA): High-resolution imaging of carotid arteries
- Carotid Artery Duplex Scanning: Combined ultrasound and Doppler imaging to assess narrowing
- Cerebral Angiography (Digital Subtraction Angiography – DSA): Detailed assessment of brain blood flow
Comprehensive Treatment Options
Our vascular specialists develop personalized treatment plans based on the severity of artery narrowing and stroke risk:
Lifestyle & Medical Management
For mild to moderate carotid artery narrowing:
- Medications: Prescribed to lower cholesterol, control blood pressure, and prevent blood clots
- Lifestyle Modifications: Heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation
- Diabetes & Hypertension Management: Specialized care from our endocrinologists
Minimally Invasive Endovascular Treatments
For significant carotid narrowing:
- Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS): Placement of a small mesh tube inside the artery to keep it open and prevent blockages
Surgical Interventions for Severe Blockages
For severe carotid stenosis or patients unsuitable for stenting:
- Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA): The gold standard surgical procedure to remove plaque buildup from the carotid artery and restore normal blood flow
Our Multidisciplinary Stroke Prevention Team
At Burjeel Medical City, we follow a collaborative team approach for optimal outcomes:
- Vascular & Endovascular Surgeons: Experts in minimally invasive and open surgical treatments
- Neurologists & Stroke Specialists: Assess brain health and prevent stroke complications
- Cardiologists: Manage heart-related risk factors
- Endocrinologists: Control diabetes and metabolic disorders
- Interventional Radiologists: Use advanced imaging for precise diagnosis and treatment
- Rehabilitation Specialists: Aid recovery after stroke or surgical procedures
Why Choose Burjeel Medical City for Carotid Artery Disease Care?
- Highly Experienced Vascular Surgeons: Specialists in carotid surgery and minimally invasive procedures
- State-of-the-Art Diagnostic Technology: Ensuring early detection and precise treatment planning
- Comprehensive Stroke Prevention Program: Focused on reducing stroke risk through personalized treatment
- Minimally Invasive & Surgical Options: Cutting-edge treatments for optimal recovery
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration among vascular, neurovascular, cardiac, and rehabilitation specialists
Take Action Against Stroke Risk
Carotid artery disease is a leading cause of stroke, but early detection and treatment can save lives. If you have risk factors or are experiencing symptoms, schedule a vascular screening at Burjeel Medical City today.
Our specialized carotid artery screening can detect problems before they lead to serious complications, giving you peace of mind and potentially life-saving early intervention.
