May is National Stroke Awareness Month: Understanding Carotid Artery Disease

by | May 19, 2026 | Carotid Artery Disease, News, Vascular Disease

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, a critical time to educate patients about one of the leading—and often silent—causes of stroke: carotid artery disease. At Premier Vascular & Vein Center in Knoxville, TN, we specialize in diagnosing and treating this serious condition before it leads to life-altering complications.

What is Carotid Artery Disease?

Your carotid arteries are two major blood vessels located in your neck that supply oxygen-rich blood to your brain. Over time, plaque made of fat and cholesterol can build up inside these arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. As plaque accumulates, it narrows or blocks blood flow to the brain—significantly increasing your risk of stroke.

Carotid artery disease is especially dangerous because it often develops without noticeable symptoms until the blockage becomes severe or a stroke occurs. In fact, strokes may be the first sign of the condition. According to vascular health data, approximately 25% of strokes occur when plaque or clots from the carotid arteries travel to the brain. 

Warning Signs and Diagnosis

While early stages may be silent, some patients experience warning signs known as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or “mini-strokes.” Symptoms may include sudden weakness, numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, or vision problems. These symptoms should always be treated as medical emergencies.

Physicians may detect carotid artery disease by listening for a “whooshing” sound, called a bruit, using a stethoscope. Diagnostic imaging plays a key role in confirming the condition, including:

  • Ultrasound: A painless, non-invasive test that evaluates blood flow and pressure in the carotid arteries 
  • CT Angiography (CTA): Uses advanced imaging and contrast dye to visualize blockages 
  • MR Angiography (MRA): Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the arteries 

Advanced Treatment Options in Knoxville, TN

Our Premier Vascular & Vein Center board-certified vascular surgeons offer advanced, personalized treatments to restore blood flow and reduce stroke risk.

Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA) is a surgical procedure that removes plaque directly from the artery, restoring normal blood flow. This is often recommended for patients with significant blockage or those who have experienced a stroke or TIA.

Carotid Angioplasty & Stenting is a minimally invasive option where a catheter is used to open the artery with a balloon, followed by placement of a stent to keep it open.

TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure designed for high-risk patients. It temporarily redirects blood flow away from the brain during the procedure to reduce the risk of stroke, while stabilizing plaque with a stent.

Take Action This Stroke Awareness Month

Stroke is a leading cause of death and long-term disability—but it is often preventable with early detection and treatment. If you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, or high cholesterol, it’s important to get evaluated.

This May, take control of your vascular health. Schedule a consultation with Premier Vascular & Vein Center today and learn how we can help protect your arteries, your brain, and your future.

👉 Request an appointment: https://www.premiervascularveincenter.com/book-online/
📞 Call: (865) 588-8229

Your health is too important to ignore—early detection can save your life.