Carotid Artery Blocked? Why Your Neck Is at Risk and Your Medical Next Steps

The carotid artery is one of the most important blood vessels in your body. In fact, you have two—one on each side of your neck. These arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your brain. When a carotid artery becomes narrowed or blocked, it can reduce blood flow to the brain and increase the risk of stroke.

If you've been told you have carotid artery blockage—or you're worried you might—this guide explains what it means, what to watch for, and what steps to take next.

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What Is the Carotid Artery and Why Is It So Important?

The carotid arteries are large, major blood vessels located on both sides of your neck. They:

• Deliver oxygen and nutrients to the brain
• Support memory, speech, and movement
• Help maintain overall brain function

When a carotid artery becomes narrowed, it's usually due to atherosclerosis—a buildup of plaque made of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances. Over time, this buildup can harden and restrict blood flow.

If the blockage becomes severe or a piece of plaque breaks off and travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.

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What Causes Carotid Artery Blockage?

Carotid artery disease develops gradually. The same risk factors that affect heart disease often affect the carotid artery as well.

Common risk factors include:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Family history of vascular disease
• Age (risk increases after 55)

High blood pressure is one of the biggest contributors because it damages artery walls over time. If you're concerned about whether uncontrolled blood pressure might be silently damaging your arteries, Ubie's free AI-powered Hypertension symptom checker can help you assess your risk and understand what symptoms to watch for.

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Warning Signs of a Blocked Carotid Artery

One of the most concerning aspects of carotid artery disease is that it often causes no symptoms until a stroke or mini-stroke (TIA) occurs.

However, warning signs of a stroke or TIA may include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body)
• Sudden confusion or trouble speaking
• Difficulty understanding speech
• Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

A TIA (transient ischemic attack) may last only a few minutes to hours and then resolve. But it is a serious warning sign. A TIA means your carotid artery may already be significantly narrowed.

If you or someone near you experiences these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately. Time is critical.

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How Is Carotid Artery Blockage Diagnosed?

If your doctor suspects carotid artery narrowing, they may recommend:

1. Carotid Ultrasound

This painless test uses sound waves to measure blood flow and detect narrowing in the carotid artery.

2. CT Angiography (CTA)

Provides detailed images of blood vessels to assess blockage severity.

3. MRI or MRA

Used to evaluate blood flow and check for previous silent strokes.

4. Carotid Angiogram

A more invasive test, usually reserved for complex cases.

Your doctor will determine the percentage of narrowing. Blockages are typically categorized as:

• Mild: Less than 50%
• Moderate: 50–69%
• Severe: 70% or greater

Treatment decisions often depend on this percentage and whether you've had symptoms.

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What Are the Treatment Options?

The good news is that carotid artery disease is treatable. Treatment depends on how severe the blockage is and whether you've had symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes (Essential for All Stages)

No matter the severity, lifestyle improvements are critical:

• Stop smoking
• Control blood pressure
• Lower cholesterol
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly (as approved by your doctor)
• Follow a heart-healthy diet (Mediterranean-style eating is often recommended)

These changes slow plaque buildup and reduce stroke risk.

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Medications

Doctors commonly prescribe:

• Antiplatelet medications (like aspirin) to reduce clot risk
• Statins to lower cholesterol
• Blood pressure medications
• Diabetes medications (if applicable)

These treatments can significantly lower stroke risk when taken consistently.

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Surgical Procedures

If the carotid artery is severely narrowed—especially if symptoms are present—procedures may be recommended.

1. Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA)

• The most common surgery
• A surgeon removes plaque directly from the carotid artery
• Proven to reduce stroke risk in appropriate patients

2. Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS)

• A less invasive option
• A small mesh tube (stent) is inserted to keep the artery open
• Often used for patients who are not good surgical candidates

Your doctor will weigh factors such as age, overall health, and degree of blockage before recommending a procedure.

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How Serious Is a Blocked Carotid Artery?

It's important to be honest: significant carotid artery blockage increases your risk of stroke.

Stroke can cause:

• Permanent disability
• Speech problems
• Paralysis
• Cognitive impairment
• In severe cases, death

However, early detection and proper treatment dramatically reduce these risks.

Many people with carotid artery disease live long, active lives—especially when they:

• Follow medical advice closely
• Take medications as prescribed
• Control blood pressure and cholesterol
• Attend regular follow-up appointments

The key is not to ignore it.

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Can Carotid Artery Disease Be Prevented?

Yes—often.

Prevention focuses on protecting your blood vessels before severe narrowing develops.

Here's what helps most:

• Keep blood pressure below recommended levels
• Maintain LDL ("bad") cholesterol at healthy levels
• Avoid tobacco completely
• Exercise at least 150 minutes per week (if medically cleared)
• Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins
• Manage stress
• Monitor blood sugar if diabetic

Routine checkups are critical. Many people discover carotid artery disease during evaluation for other conditions, such as heart disease.

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When Should You Speak to a Doctor?

You should speak to a doctor if:

• You've experienced stroke-like symptoms (even if they went away)
• You have known high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• You have a strong family history of vascular disease
• A healthcare provider detected a carotid bruit (abnormal sound in the neck)
• You are over 55 with multiple cardiovascular risk factors

If anything feels sudden, severe, or life-threatening—seek emergency care immediately.

Stroke is a medical emergency. Acting fast can save brain function and your life.

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Final Thoughts: Take Action, Don't Panic

A blocked carotid artery is serious—but it is also manageable.

Many people feel frightened when they hear the word "blockage." That's understandable. The carotid artery supplies your brain, and that's not something to ignore.

But here's the balanced truth:

• Carotid artery disease usually develops slowly.
• It can be detected with simple tests.
• It is highly treatable.
• Stroke risk can be dramatically reduced with proper care.

The most important next step is not fear—it's action.

If you are concerned about your blood pressure, consider starting with a free online screening like the Hypertension symptom checker, and then discuss your results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Above all, speak to a doctor about any symptoms, risk factors, or concerns related to carotid artery disease. Early evaluation could prevent a life-changing event.

Your neck contains arteries that power your brain. Taking care of your carotid artery means protecting your ability to think, move, speak, and live fully.

That's worth addressing today.