Tag: carotid arteries

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Everything You Need to Know About Carotid Artery Ultrasound

A carotid artery ultrasound is a test used to detect blockages in the carotid arteries, which are the two main arteries that supply blood to the brain. What is a carotid ultrasound?

It is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the carotid arteries. When would a carotid ultrasound be needed?

It is typically used to detect narrowing of the carotid arteries, which can be caused by plaque buildup, and can increase the risk of stroke. Who performs a carotid ultrasound?

A trained technician or doctor will perform the test.

How does a carotid artery ultrasound work?

The technician will use a transducer, which is a device that sends and receives sound waves, to create images of the carotid arteries. The technician will move the transducer over the neck area to create the images. How do I prepare for the test?

You should wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid wearing jewelry or other metal objects. You may also be asked to remove any clothing or jewelry that may interfere with the test.

What to expect on the date of the test?

You will be asked to lie down on an exam table and the technician will apply a gel to the neck area. The technician will then move the transducer over the neck area to create the images. What to expect during a carotid ultrasound?

You may feel slight pressure from the transducer, but the test is painless. What to expect after a carotid artery ultrasound?

After the test, you can resume your normal activities.

What are the risks of a carotid ultrasound?

There are no known risks associated with the test. What type of results do you get and what do the results mean?

The results will show if there is any narrowing of the carotid arteries. If narrowing is detected, your doctor may recommend further testing or treatment. Stroke risk factors

include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

When should I know the results of the test?

The results of the test will usually be available within a few days. When should I call my doctor?

You should call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the results of the test.

References:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Carotid Artery Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/carotid-artery-ultrasound/about/pac-20384717

2. American Heart Association. (2020). Carotid Artery Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/stroke/diagnosing-stroke/carotid-artery-ultrasound

3. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Carotid Artery Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Carotid-Artery-Ultrasound-Fact-Sheet

4. WebMD. (2020). Carotid Artery Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/stroke/carotid-artery-ultrasound#1

5. American Stroke Association. (2020). Carotid Artery Ultrasound. Retrieved from https://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/AboutStroke/Tests/Carotid-Artery-Ultrasound_UCM_308520_Article.jsp

Keywords: carotid ultrasound, carotid artery ultrasound, carotid arteries, stroke risk, transducer, ultrasound test

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Everything You Need to Know About Carotid Angiography

Carotid angiography is a type of imaging test used to diagnose and treat carotid artery disease. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses X-rays and a contrast dye to create detailed images of the carotid arteries in the neck.

What is carotid angiography?

Carotid angiography is a type of imaging test used to diagnose and treat carotid artery disease. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses X-rays and a contrast dye to create detailed images of the carotid arteries in the neck.

When is carotid angiography performed?

Carotid angiography is typically performed when a patient has symptoms of carotid artery disease, such as stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). It is also used to evaluate the severity of carotid artery disease and to plan treatment.

What tests might I have before carotid angiography?

Before carotid angiography, your healthcare provider may order other tests, such as a carotid ultrasound or a CT angiogram. These tests can help your healthcare provider determine if carotid angiography is necessary.

Who performs carotid angiography?

Carotid angiography is typically performed by a radiologist or a vascular surgeon.

How does carotid angiography work?

During carotid angiography, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin. The catheter is then guided through the artery to the carotid arteries in the neck. A contrast dye is injected through the catheter, and X-ray images are taken to create detailed images of the carotid arteries.

How do I prepare for carotid angiography?

Before carotid angiography, your healthcare provider will give you instructions on how to prepare. This may include fasting for several hours before the procedure and avoiding certain medications.

What should I expect when I arrive for carotid angiography?

When you arrive for carotid angiography, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie on an X-ray table. You will be connected to monitors to track your heart rate and blood pressure.

What should I expect during carotid angiography?

During carotid angiography, you may feel some pressure when the catheter is inserted into your artery. You may also feel a warm sensation when the contrast dye is injected. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes.

Is carotid angiography painful?

Carotid angiography is not usually painful, but you may experience some discomfort.

What should I expect after carotid angiography?

After carotid angiography, you may experience some bruising or soreness at the site where the catheter was inserted. You may also feel tired or have a headache. These symptoms should resolve within a few days.

What do carotid angiography results show?

Carotid angiography results show the size and shape of the carotid arteries, as well as any blockages or narrowing of the arteries.

When will I know the results of carotid angiography?

Your healthcare provider will discuss the results of carotid angiography with you after the procedure.

When should I call my healthcare provider after carotid angiography?

You should call your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms after carotid angiography, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

How do healthcare providers treat carotid artery disease?

Treatment for carotid artery disease depends on the severity of the disease. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.

References:

1. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Carotid Angiography. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/carotid-angiography

2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Carotid Angiography. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/carotid-angiography/about/pac-20384590

3. American Heart Association. (2020). Carotid Artery Disease. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/carotid-artery-disease

Keywords: carotid angiography, imaging test, carotid artery disease, X-rays, contrast dye, catheter, carotid arteries, blockages, narrowing, lifestyle changes, medications, surgery