Carotid disease is a condition affecting the carotid arteries, which are major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to your brain. When these arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (a condition known as carotid artery stenosis), your risk of stroke increases.
At Cardiac and Vascular Consultants, our skilled cardiologists provide expert evaluation and management to our patients in the Florida area.
About Carotid Disease
Carotid disease primarily results from atherosclerosis, a process where cholesterol and other fatty substances accumulate in the artery walls, leading to narrowing and stiffening. This limits blood flow to the brain and can result in transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or strokes.
Recognizing the symptoms early can be life-saving. Common symptoms include sudden numbness, weakness, or paralysis, especially on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, and sudden vision problems.
Diagnosing Carotid Disease
At Cardiac and Vascular Consultants, we use a variety of diagnostic tools to assess carotid disease:
- Ultrasound: A non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the carotid arteries.
- CT Angiography: Combines X-ray images with computer technology to create detailed pictures of blood vessels.
- Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): An MRI scan that focuses on blood vessels.
- Cerebral Angiography: An invasive procedure that provides a detailed image of the blood flow in the brain and carotid arteries.
Treatment Options for Carotid Disease
Treatment at Cardiac and Vascular Consultants is tailored to each patient and may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical interventions:
Lifestyle and Medical Management
Initial treatment often involves managing risk factors through lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation, adopting a healthy diet, and engaging in regular physical activity.
Medications may also be prescribed to control blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and prevent blood clots.
Interventional Procedures
For more advanced cases, interventional procedures such as carotid endarterectomy or carotid artery stenting may be recommended. Carotid stents are a minimally invasive option that can restore blood flow and reduce stroke risk.
Why Choose Cardiac and Vascular Consultants
Your care starts with experienced specialists and advanced diagnostic technology at Cardiac and Vascular Consultants. With offices in The Villages, Lecanto, Leesburg, Wildwood, Summerfield, and Lady Lake, FL, we make it easier for patients across Central Florida to access expert heart and vascular care without traveling far.
Leading our team is Dr. Shrikanth Upadya, a board-certified cardiologist known for treating complex coronary and peripheral artery conditions, including carotid artery disease. His focus on minimally invasive techniques helps patients receive timely treatment with less downtime. Whether you need routine testing or advanced intervention, our accredited imaging centers and skilled providers are ready to help you manage your heart health.
Contact Us Today
Early evaluation and treatment can make a significant difference in managing carotid disease and protecting your long-term health. At Cardiac and Vascular Consultants, our team is ready to help you explore the most appropriate treatment options. Call our main office at 352-513-3482 or our Lecanto office at 352-633-1966 today.
