Internal carotid artery diseases refer to a group of medical conditions that affect the internal carotid arteries, which are major blood vessels located in the neck that supply blood to the brain. These conditions typically involve the narrowing or blockage of the internal carotid arteries, leading to various symptoms and potential complications.
One common internal carotid artery disease is carotid artery stenosis, which occurs when the arteries become narrowed due to the buildup of fatty deposits, known as plaque. This narrowing restricts blood flow to the brain and can increase the risk of stroke, transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes), or other cerebral events.
Another internal carotid artery disease is carotid artery dissection, which involves a tear or rupture in the arterial wall. This condition can lead to the formation of blood clots and subsequent blockage of blood flow, potentially causing a stroke or other neurological complications.
Symptoms of internal carotid artery diseases can vary depending on the degree of blockage or narrowing and may include transient or ongoing neurological deficits such as weakness, tingling, or numbness in the face or limbs, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision changes, dizziness, or severe headache.
The diagnosis of internal carotid artery diseases typically involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and imaging tests, such as Doppler ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or angiography. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medications to manage risk factors, or invasive procedures like carotid endarterectomy or angioplasty with stenting to remove or alleviate blockages in the arteries.
Overall, internal carotid artery diseases pose a significant risk to brain health and require prompt diagnosis and management to prevent serious complications.
