Narrowing of the carotid arteries or carotid artery stenosis can lead to impaired blood supply to the brain and even ischemic stroke. Timely diagnosis and treatment of carotid artery stenosis in Israel can help prevent the development of many undesirable consequences.
Causes
Factors that can influence the development of carotid artery stenosis are numerous. All of them are predisposing factors, but by no means the main causes of this ailment. Among the causes are a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and heredity.
Symptoms of Carotid Artery Stenosis in Israel
The main symptoms are so-called transient attacks. They may be overlooked, while they are important indicators of problems with the carotid arteries. Such attacks occur at moments of difficulty in blood flow to the brain. The duration of such symptoms can last several hours. During this time, a person may have difficulty speaking and processing information. Coordination of movements significantly worsens during attacks, vision deteriorates, and one side of the body may become numb. These symptoms can be precursors to a stroke.
Diagnosis of Carotid Artery Stenosis in Israel
The diagnosis of carotid artery stenosis in Israel includes the physician's review of the medical history and symptoms. Blood flow disturbances in the arteries can be detected using a stethoscope. An ultrasound of the carotid arteries and tomographic angiography may also be prescribed, which allows for the examination of blood flow. Additional studies may be conducted using magnetic resonance angiography.
Treatment of Carotid Artery Stenosis in Israel
Asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis can be treated medically. An important part of such treatment is the adjustment of the patient's lifestyle. If significant plaque accumulation is diagnosed in the arteries, carotid endarterectomy may be recommended. This surgical intervention aims to clean the walls of the arteries. Additionally, angioplasty and stenting are performed in Israel. This procedure involves inserting a balloon into the artery to expand it and subsequently placing a stent—a metal mesh that prevents the artery from narrowing.
Prevention
Prevention primarily involves changing the patient's lifestyle to reduce the risk of stroke. This includes adjusting the diet, quitting smoking, and controlling cholesterol and blood pressure levels.