Carotid artery ultrasound is a painless test that evaluates the condition of the carotid arteries, which can contribute to strokes and arterial narrowing. The test uses sound waves to create an image of the arteries, and no preparatory measures are usually necessary. Abnormal results may require additional tests or surgery.
Carotid artery ultrasound is a painless diagnostic test used to evaluate the condition of the carotid arteries, located on both sides of the neck. The test is usually administered to check for blockages that can contribute to various conditions, including strokes and arterial narrowing or stenosis. Often performed in the presence of certain medical conditions, no preparatory measures are usually necessary unless otherwise specified by your doctor during the consultation. There are no risks associated with administering a carotid ultrasound.
Working on the same principle as prenatal ultrasound, carotid artery ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of these essential arterial passageways. The administration of an ultrasound scan is used to evaluate the condition of the carotid artery and detect any abnormalities, such as blood clots or arterial narrowing due to the presence of plaque that can obstruct proper blood flow. Emitted through a small device called a transducer, sound waves are essentially reflected from the tissues and blood vessels that surround and include the carotid artery and transmitted to a visual monitor to create an image of the targeted area. Any narrowing or blockage within the arterial passage will likewise reflect sound waves and be present in the image.
The carotid arteries play an essential role in regulating proper blood flow to and from the brain. Any blockages could lead to potentially debilitating conditions or death. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions that affect arterial function, such as atherosclerosis, may have a carotid artery ultrasound as a precautionary measure to evaluate the condition of these arterial passageways. Those with a history of blood clots or strokes may also have periodic carotid ultrasounds to assess their condition and determine if any changes have occurred. In the absence of a preexisting condition or known history, an ultrasound of the carotid artery may be ordered if abnormalities in blood flow or strange circulatory noises, such as a murmur, are found during a routine exam.
No preparatory steps are needed for an ultrasound of the carotid artery. Conducted in a clinical or hospital setting, the test is usually administered in the radiology department by a trained technician and requires the individual to be immobile on a table with their head supported. After a clear gel has been applied to the area of focus, the technician passes the transducer over the artery to help transmit the sound wave. The entire test usually takes less than 30 minutes to complete.
Normal results are indicative of unimpaired blood flow through the carotid artery. Abnormal results generally indicate the presence of some type of blockage that negatively affects proper blood flow, such as arterial narrowing or blood clots. In some cases, additional tests may be required to further evaluate the cause of the obstructed blood flow. The individual may be given specific instructions regarding suggested lifestyle and dietary changes that may need to be made to slow the progression of arterial narrowing associated with atherosclerosis. Depending on the severity of the blockage, surgery to remove the blockage may be recommended to prevent a stroke or other potentially debilitating or fatal complications.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
