Carotid Ultrasound
Screens for narrowed carotid arteries, which increase the risk of stroke.
What is a carotid ultrasound?
When combined with a Doppler ultrasound, the carotid ultrasound can show how blood moves through your arteries. A carotid ultrasound detects plaque buildup in the carotid arteries in the neck, to see if there is blockage of blood flow to the brain—which can prevent a stroke.
What is a Doppler ultrasound?
A Doppler ultrasound is usually conducted as part of a carotid ultrasound. It is a procedure that examines your carotid arteries. The carotid arteries supply oxygen to your brain through your bloodstream.
More facts pertaining to carotid ultrasounds:
- You have one carotid artery on each side of your neck
- Blocked arteries may cause a stroke
- Buildup of plaque occurs with aging