Your carotid artery is the artery that supplies blood to the brain. Sometimes plaque builds up in the carotid arteries and can cause strokes and TIA’s. In order to see the condition of your carotid artery, carotid ultrasound imaging is used. The following are some common questions and answers to carotid ultrasound imaging questions:
How does carotid ultrasound imaging work?
Well, ultrasounds, also called sonographies, uses high-frequency sound waves to image a particular region or organ in the body or to monitor blood flow. So basically, sound waves are focused at your carotid artery and on a monitor the doctor is able to see the area and the blood flow. When sound waves are focused at a part of the body, the returning echoes are then processed by the computer to yield clear and accurate images of the part of the body being examined. The returning sound waves, or echoes, reflect the size and shape of the structure and whether it is solid, fluid, or something in between. That is how the doctor is able to understand the image. Slower blood flow indicates lots of plaque build up.
Does carotid ultrasound imaging hurt?
Nope, not at all! It is a totally noninvasive procedure that causes no discomfort, except for it might be a little cold on your skin.
What are some of the benefits of carotid ultrasound imaging?
In a carotid ultrasound exam, the carotid arteries, (which are the large vessels in the neck) are examined. Carotid ultrasound can depict plaque that narrows the artery and may limit the free flow of blood to the brain. So it is a good way to know if you need surgery, or any sort of treatment. It has helped in preventing lots of strokes.
Another benefit is that unlike x-rays, ultrasound requires no exposure to ionizing radiation, so you can use this process as many times as you want without concern of accumulating radiation exposure. It can also be used on pregnant women without any risk to the fetus.
One benefit many enjoy is that it is noninvasive, which is rare with many medical procedures.
Another huge benefit, especially if you are seriously at risk is that carotid ultrasound imaging is a real-time technique that provides a picture of blood flow as it is at the very moment of imaging. So, you know right away what the problem is, and don’t have to wait for results to come back.
A benefit many enjoy is that this procedure is significantly less than the alternative, a CT scan. So, even those without really great insurance coverage, or with no insurance at all can generally afford to have this test and possibly prevent a stroke as a result of it.
And last but not least, one of the biggest benefits of carotid ultrasound imaging is that in the 50 plus years they have been doing it, there have been no negative side effects. Thus, it is virtually risk free.
When do people usually get recommended for carotid ultrasound imaging?
The most common, and thus frequent reason for a carotid ultrasound imaging is to detect narrowing of the carotid artery. Such narrowing substantially increases the risk of stroke. Your doctor will likely recommend this procedure if he or she finds you have high blood pressure or a carotid bruit, which is an abnormal sound in the neck that is heard with the stethoscope.
Carotid ultrasound imaging is a great idea if you live a lifestyle that could contribute to plaque buildup in your veins and arteries. Even if you live a healthy life, exercise regularly, eat well, avoid alcohol and smoking, it is a viable and wonderful option.