Welcome to Surgical Associates Chartered, your trusted destination for comprehensive vascular care in Camp Springs and Waldorf. At Surgical Associates Chartered, we understand that vascular health is a cornerstone of overall well-being.
Our practice is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive, compassionate care for a wide range of vascular conditions, including carotid artery disease (CAD). Our team of experienced and board-certified vascular surgeons utilizes advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive treatment techniques to address carotid artery disease effectively.
We are committed to providing personalized care plans tailored to your individual needs and medical history.
Understanding Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease is a progressive condition that develops when the carotid arteries, the two major vessels supplying blood to your brain, become narrowed or blocked.
This narrowing is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque, a fatty substance that accumulates on the inner walls of the arteries.
As plaque continues to accumulate, it restricts blood flow to the brain, increasing your risk of stroke – a potentially debilitating event that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted.
Causes Of Carotid Artery Disease
Several factors contribute to the development of carotid artery disease.
Here’s a closer look at the common culprits:
- Atherosclerosis: This underlying condition, often referred to as “hardening of the arteries,” is a major contributor to CAD. Atherosclerosis involves the buildup of plaque not only in the carotid arteries but throughout the vascular system. Factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes can accelerate atherosclerosis.
- High Blood Pressure: Chronically high blood pressure damages the inner lining of the carotid arteries, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup.
- Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for CAD. The chemicals in cigarettes damage the blood vessel walls and promote inflammation, contributing to plaque formation.
- Diabetes: This chronic condition can affect how your body uses cholesterol and blood sugar, leading to an increased risk of plaque buildup in the arteries.
- High Cholesterol: High levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can contribute to plaque formation within the carotid arteries.
- Family History: If you have a close relative with CAD, you may be at a higher risk of developing the condition yourself.
- Age: The risk of CAD increases with age as the arteries naturally lose some elasticity and become more prone to plaque buildup.
Recognizing Signs & Symptoms
Carotid artery disease (CAD) is a serious condition that develops silently, often without symptoms in the early stages. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the warning signs that your carotid arteries may be narrowed or blocked. Early detection and treatment of CAD are essential to prevent potentially devastating complications like stroke.
While some people with CAD may not experience any noticeable symptoms, for others, the condition can manifest in several ways.
Here are some key signs to watch out for:
- Sudden Weakness or Numbness on One Side of the Body: This can manifest as difficulty using an arm or leg on one side, or a drooping sensation in the face.
- Difficulty Speaking or Understanding Speech: Slurred speech, difficulty finding words, or problems comprehending spoken language can be signs of reduced blood flow to the brain.
- Vision Problems in One Eye: Sudden blurred vision, partial vision loss, or complete vision loss in one eye can be a warning sign of CAD.
- Unexplained Dizziness or Loss of Balance: Sudden dizziness, vertigo, or feeling unsteady on your feet can indicate insufficient blood flow to the brain.
- Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs): In some cases, individuals with CAD may experience transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), often referred to as “mini-strokes.” TIAs cause temporary stroke-like symptoms that typically last for a few minutes to an hour and resolve without permanent damage. However, TIAs serve as a critical warning sign that a major stroke could be imminent. If you experience any TIA symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Dangers of Leaving Carotid Artery Disease Untreated
A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to permanent brain damage, disability, or even death.
Here’s a closer look at a few other potential consequences of neglecting carotid artery disease:
- Stroke: As the most severe complication, a stroke can cause sudden weakness, paralysis, speech difficulties, vision problems, and memory loss. The severity of stroke symptoms depends on the affected area of the brain and the extent of damage. Strokes can be life-threatening and often require extensive rehabilitation to regain lost functions.
- Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs): These “mini-strokes” cause temporary stroke-like symptoms that typically last for a few minutes to an hour and resolve without permanent damage. However, TIAs serve as a critical warning sign that a major stroke could be imminent. Ignoring TIAs and failing to address the underlying CAD puts you at a significantly higher risk of experiencing a full-blown stroke later.
- Long-Term Health Risks: Even if you avoid a major stroke, untreated CAD can lead to a decline in cognitive function, memory problems, and an increased risk of dementia over time. Additionally, reduced blood flow to the brain can cause personality changes, emotional instability, and difficulty concentrating.
Treatment Options For Carotid Artery Disease
At Surgical Associates Chartered, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for carotid artery disease (CAD).
Our team of experienced vascular surgeons will work closely with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of your CAD, your overall health, and your individual preferences.
Here’s an overview of the treatment options we offer:
A. Lifestyle Modifications:
For mild CAD, significant improvements can often be achieved through lifestyle modifications. These changes address the underlying risk factors for plaque buildup and promote overall vascular health:
- Healthy Diet: A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, slowing the progression of CAD. Limiting unhealthy fats, processed foods, and added sugar is also crucial.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, improves blood flow throughout the body and helps maintain a healthy weight. Exercise can also positively impact cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
- Smoking Cessation: Smoking is a major risk factor for CAD. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to slow the progression of the disease and significantly reduce your stroke risk
B. Carotid Endarterectomy (Surgery):
For moderate to severe CAD, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the plaque buildup and restore blood flow to the brain. Carotid endarterectomy is a well-established procedure where a surgeon makes an incision in the neck, opens the blocked carotid artery, and removes the plaque deposits. The artery is then stitched closed with a patch or graft. While carotid endarterectomy is a highly effective procedure, it’s important to understand the associated risks and recovery time.
C. Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS):
Carotid artery stenting (CAS) is a minimally invasive procedure that may be suitable for certain patients. During CAS, a thin tube with a mesh stent is inserted into the narrowed carotid artery. The stent is then expanded, pushing the plaque buildup against the artery wall and opening the passage for blood flow. CAS offers a quicker recovery time compared to surgery, but it may not be appropriate for all cases.
Aftercare Tips For Lasting Results
Following successful treatment for carotid artery disease (CAD), prioritizing long-term health and preventing future complications is crucial. At Surgical Associates Chartered, we are committed to supporting you throughout your recovery journey. Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure you heal well and maintain optimal vascular health.
Here are some key aftercare practices to keep in mind, but remember, always prioritize following the specific instructions provided by your vascular surgeon:
- Medication Management: Taking any prescribed medications as directed by your doctor is essential. These medications may help lower blood pressure, manage cholesterol levels, or prevent blood clots, all of which contribute to reducing your risk of future stroke.
- Regular Checkups: Scheduling regular follow-up appointments with your vascular surgeon allows them to monitor your progress, check for any signs of recurrence, and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
- Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is paramount for long-term vascular health. This includes:
- Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Limiting unhealthy fats, processed foods, and added sugar is vital.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, improves blood flow and overall cardiovascular health. Aim for moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
- Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, quitting is one of the most significant steps you can take to prevent future complications from CAD. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation resources and support programs available to help you quit.
Why Choose Surgical Associates Chartered?
Surgical Associates Chartered is dedicated to providing compassionate care and advance treatments for vascular conditions such as carotid artery disease.
With a team of experienced vascular specialists and state-of-the-art technology, we are committed to delivering the highest quality care to our patients in Camp Springs and Waldorf.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of carotid artery disease, schedule a consultation with us today to explore your treatment options and take control of your vascular health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How will I know if I have carotid artery disease?
In its early stages, CAD often doesn’t present any noticeable symptoms. However, during routine checkups, your doctor may listen for a whooshing sound in your neck (carotid bruit) which can be a sign of narrowed arteries. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans can confirm the presence and severity of CAD.
2. What are the risks associated with carotid artery surgery or stenting?
Both carotid endarterectomy and carotid artery stenting are generally safe and effective procedures. However, like any surgery, there are potential risks involved, such as bleeding, infection, stroke, or nerve damage. Our team at Surgical Associates Chartered will discuss these risks in detail with you before recommending a treatment plan.
3. Will I need to stay in the hospital after carotid artery surgery or stenting?
Following carotid endarterectomy, you will typically stay in the hospital for a few days for observation and recovery. CAS is a minimally invasive procedure, and you may only require an overnight stay or even go home the same day.
4. Will I be able to return to my normal activities after treatment?
Most patients can gradually resume their normal activities within a few weeks of treatment for CAD. However, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding exercise limitations and other restrictions during recovery.
5. Does insurance cover treatment for carotid artery disease?
Most insurance plans cover the diagnosis and treatment of carotid artery disease, including surgery and stenting. Our team at Surgical Associates Chartered can assist you with verifying your insurance coverage and navigating the pre-authorization process.