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Carotid Artery Disease

Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque—a combination of fat, cholesterol, and other substances—builds up in the carotid arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. As plaque accumulates, it narrows these vital arteries, restricting blood flow. If the blockage becomes severe or a piece of plaque dislodges, it can lead to a stroke, a potentially life-threatening event where the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen.

Carotid Artery Disease Treatment Centers in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Southwest Florida

Our Carotid Artery Disease team of specialists offer the latest treatment options.

Symptoms of Carotid Artery Disease

Carotid artery disease often develops without symptoms until a serious event, such as a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), occurs. When symptoms appear, they may include:

  • Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Blurred or lost vision in one eye
  • Dizziness or loss of balance
  • A sudden, severe headache with no clear cause

If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

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Causes and Risk Factors of Carotid Artery Disease

Carotid artery disease results from atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrowed due to plaque buildup. Several factors can increase the risk:

  • High blood pressure – Weakens artery walls over time
  • Smoking – Damages blood vessels and accelerates plaque formation
  • Diabetes – Contributes to artery damage and increases plaque buildup
  • High cholesterol – Leads to fatty deposits in arteries
  • Lack of exercise – Can result in weight gain and poor circulation
  • Unhealthy diet – Increases the risk of high cholesterol and arterial plaque
  • Family history – Genetic predisposition to heart and artery disease


Carotid Artery Disease Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Carotid artery disease is a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening strokes if left untreated. At Lee Health, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and innovative treatment options to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Lee Health uses advanced diagnostic tools to detect carotid artery disease early and accurately:

  • Ultrasound – A painless test that uses sound waves to assess blood flow and detect blockages.
  • CT Scan or MRI – Produces detailed images of the carotid arteries to identify narrowing or plaque buildup.
  • Angiogram – A minimally invasive test where a contrast dye highlights blockages in the arteries on an X-ray.

Our specialists provide tailored treatments based on the severity of your condition. Options include:

  • Lifestyle Changes
    • Making healthy choices can slow or prevent disease progression:
    • Quit smoking
    • Eat a heart-healthy diet
    • Exercise regularly
    • Maintain a healthy weight
    • Manage blood pressure and cholesterol
  • Medications
  • Medications can help reduce stroke risk and maintain artery health:
  • Blood thinners (aspirin, anticoagulants) – Prevent clot formation
  • Statins – Lower cholesterol and slow plaque buildup
  • Blood pressure medications – Help protect artery walls
  • Surgical and Minimally Invasive Procedures

For severe cases, Lee Health offers advanced surgical treatments:

  • Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA) – A surgical procedure to remove plaque from the artery.
  • Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS) – A minimally invasive procedure where a stent is placed to keep the artery open.

Request an Appointment with a Carotid Artery Disease Specialist

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