carotisarterien

The carotisarterien, commonly known as carotid arteries, are two major blood vessels located on either side of the neck. They originate from the aorta in the chest and ascend into the head, supplying oxygenated blood to the brain, face, and neck. Each carotid artery further divides into two branches: the external carotid artery, which supplies blood to the face and neck, and the internal carotid artery, which enters the skull to perfuse the brain.

These arteries are crucial for brain function. Blockages or narrowing of the carotid arteries, often caused by atherosclerosis (plaque buildup), can significantly reduce blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke. Symptoms of reduced blood flow can include transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), often referred to as mini-strokes, which may manifest as temporary weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or vision problems.

Medical professionals often assess the patency of the carotid arteries through physical examination, listening for bruits (abnormal sounds indicating turbulent blood flow), and imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT angiography, or MRI angiography. Treatment for carotid artery disease may involve lifestyle modifications, medications to manage risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol, or surgical procedures like carotid endarterectomy to remove plaque or angioplasty with stenting to open narrowed vessels. Maintaining healthy cardiovascular habits is important for the health of the carotid arteries.