What is a Carotid Ultrasound?
Carotid ultrasounds are used to check for blockages of the carotid arteries which are responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the brain. These blockages are typically caused when plaque build-up over time causes gradual artery narrowing. In some cases, this narrowing can eventually lead to a complete blockage and stroke. Your physician may request this test if they suspect potential blockage due to any of the following factors:
- Previous mini-stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
- High cholesterol or blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Family history of heart disease or stroke
- Coronary artery disease
Our Mission is to Provide Our Patients the Highest Quality Cardiovascular Care Available.
Cardiovascular Institute of the South is one of the nation’s most respected groups of cardiologists, representing nearly every specialty in heart and vascular medicine. While most leading medical centers are located in a single facility within a large city, CIS brings comprehensive cardiovascular care close to home by serving patients in 20 locations throughout the Southeast United States. Established in 1983, CIS remains dedicated to its mission, guiding its expansion to more communities.
What are the risk factors associated with Carotid Artery Disease?
Some people are considered to have a higher risk of developing CAD than others. Unsurprisingly, many of these factors are the same as those that contribute to other forms of cardiovascular disease as well. They include:
- Smoking
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Sleep apnea
- Lack of physical fitness