Atherosclerosis can affect any artery in the body. For example, if plaque builds up in the coronary (heart) arteries, a heart attack can occur. If plaque builds up in the carotid arteries, a stroke can occur.
CAD is typically caused by atherosclerosis, a disease in which plaque builds up in the arteries. A similar buildup occurs in the heart’s blood vessels when someone has coronary artery disease. Plaque contains clumps of:
- cholesterol
- fat
- cellular waste
- protein
- calcium
CAD can also be the result of other diseases that cause arterial damage.
Risk factors
- Age
- Smoking – Click here to learn about how smoking affects your heart
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Abnormal lipids or high cholesterol
- Insulin resistance
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Family history of atherosclerosis, either coronary artery disease or carotid artery disease
Symptoms
You may not have any symptoms of carotid artery disease. Plaque builds up in the carotid arteries over time with no warning signs until you have a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or a stroke. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor regularly for physical exams. Your doctor may listen to the arteries in your neck with a stethoscope. If an abnormal sound is heard over an artery, it may reflect turbulent blood flow. That could indicate carotid artery disease.
Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
To keep carotid artery disease from progressing, the following lifestyle changes are recommended:
- Quit smoking.
- Control high blood pressure.
- Control diabetes.
- Have regular checkups with your doctor.
- Have your doctor check your cholesterol and get treatment, if necessary.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
- Limit alcohol to 1 drink per day for women, 2 for men.
Acclaimed Heart and Vascular Center
We deliver excellent care with compassion after discussing your health and treatment plan with simplicity.
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.