Picture of Carotid Arteries Disease
Carotid artery disease, or carotid artery stenosis, is a condition in which there is narrowing of the carotid arteries due the buildup of plaque. Plaque is made of cholesterol and other fatty substances found in the blood. Carotid artery occlusion occurs when there is complete blockage of the blood vessel. Occluded carotid arteries increase the risk of stroke, which is a leading killer in the United States.
Image Source: MedicineNet, Inc.
Text Reference: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: “What Is Carotid Artery Disease?”
Text Reference: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: “What Is Carotid Artery Disease?”