Blood is transported to the brain via the carotid arteries. With the accumulation of cholesterol on the vascular walls, there are plaques in the carotid artery, the treatment of which requires serious surgical intervention. This becomes the cause of blockage (stenosis of blood vessels) and obstructed blood flow, which can lead to thrombosis and cerebral stroke.
Symptoms of plaques in the carotid arteries
Healthy arteries are elastic and smooth, however, as they form plaques, their constriction and coarsening take place. On the walls over time, calcium, cholesterol, fibrous tissue particles can be deposited. The older the person, the higher the risk of cholesterol plaques in the carotid artery.
At the initial stage, it is almost impossible to detect the disease. Usually a person learns about the presence of ailment after suffering a stroke. However, it is worth paying attention to some signs preceding the stroke:
- drowsiness, memory impairment;
- feeling of burning and numbness;
- loss of coordination of movements;
- significant deterioration of vision in one eye;
- violation of speech functions;
- faint .
If you have experienced similar symptoms, you may soon have a stroke. Then it is very important to get to the doctor as soon as possible.
Plaque removal in carotid arteries
With a mild form of the disease, the doctor prescribes conservative treatment, which includes taking medications that dilute the blood, preventing the formation of blood clots. In addition, great importance is given to the patient's lifestyle, he should abandon the addictions and observe a special diet.
In more serious cases, the plaque on the carotid artery is removed by surgery. A doctor can choose one of two methods:
- Carotid endarterectomy, in the process of which occurs
removal of plaque. The patient is given a general anesthetic or local anesthesia. The surgeon performs a small incision in the narrowing of the lumen, then cleanses its internal walls from the plaques and sews the incision. - Angioplasty and stenting, involving the installation of a stent (a metal tube) in the place of stenosis, which is constantly in the open state, which maintains the necessary clearance and reduces the risk of a stroke .
To prevent the deposition of atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid artery, you need:
- Refuse from smoking, drinking alcohol.
- Maintain regular motor activity.
- Healthy food.