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Carotid artery disease occurs when plaques, which are fatty deposits, clog the blood vessels that deliver blood to the brain and head (carotid arteries). This obstruction heightens the risk of experiencing a stroke, leading to a lack of oxygen and the rapid death of brain cells. Sometimes, carotid artery disease develops slowly and might not show any signs until a serious event like a stroke or a TIA happens. A TIA, which can be thought of as a "mini stroke," happens when the brain doesn't get enough blood for a short amount of time.
To manage carotid artery disease, it's really about mixing healthy lifestyle changes, taking prescribed medicines, and in some cases, considering surgery to lower the chances of having a stroke.
Our vascular surgery team, Dr. Heath Broussard, Dr. Kent Nachtigal, and Dr. Nestor Arita, specialize in treating carotid arterty disease. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call Baxter Health Heart and Vascular Clinic at 870-508-3200.