Diagnosing Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease is a serious condition that affects the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the brain. If left untreated, it can lead to stroke, heart attack, and other serious health problems.
Testing for carotid artery disease can be performed quickly and easily with ultrasound scanning. While carotid artery stenosis screening is not recommended for most people who are asymptomatic and is not covered by most insurance, if you have a personal or family history of stroke or heart disease, coronary artery disease and you smoke or have diabetes, your physician may recommend a diagnostic test.
At Premier Surgical Vascular and Vein Center in Knoxville, TN, our board-certified vascular surgeons have years of experience in diagnosing and treating vascular diseases such as carotid artery disease. We understand the importance of early detection and we offer comprehensive carotid artery scanning. Premier Vascular and Vein Center’s on-site Ultrasound Laboratory features an entire team of Registered Vascular Technologists.
What is Carotid Artery Disease?
Carotid artery disease occurs when the carotid arteries, which are located in the neck, become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque. Plaque is made up of cholesterol, fat, and other substances that can accumulate in the arteries over time. This can restrict blood flow to the brain and increase the risk of stroke or other serious complications.
What Happens During a Carotid Ultrasound?
During a carotid artery ultrasound, imaging technology is used to examine the blood flow in your carotid arteries. This is a painless and non-invasive procedure that takes just a few minutes to complete. If any abnormalities are detected, further testing or treatment may be recommended.
If you are experiencing symptoms or are at risk for carotid artery disease, it is important to talk to your physician about carotid artery testing. At Premier Surgical Vascular and Vein Center, our team of board-certified vascular surgeons have the expertise and experience to diagnose and treat vascular diseases with the latest techniques and technologies.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your health. To schedule an appointment, contact Premier Surgical Vascular and Vein Center in Knoxville, TN, today to schedule an appointment today. Call (865) 588-8229 or book online at https://www.premiervascularveincenter.com/book-online/