Symptoms that need urgent care
Face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, sudden loss of vision, or sudden neurological symptoms require emergency assessment. Call 111 immediately.
Stroke-risk assessment
Carotid Disease
Carotid artery disease involves narrowing of the arteries in the neck that supply the brain. It is often found after a stroke or transient ischaemic attack, or incidentally during imaging for another reason.
Specialist review may include
- Review of the event history, current medicines, and cardiovascular risk factors.
- Carotid ultrasound and, where needed, CT or MR angiography.
- Discussion of medical therapy, surveillance, carotid endarterectomy, or stenting where appropriate.
- Coordination with stroke physicians, neurologists, GPs, and other specialists.
Decision-making
The value of intervention depends on whether symptoms have occurred, degree of narrowing, timing, anatomy, surgical risk, and current best medical therapy. Advice should be individualised and based on contemporary evidence.
Next step
Discuss a vascular enquiry
Share the clinical question, relevant history, and any previous imaging so the next step can be planned appropriately.