What can I Expect During Carotid Artery Screening?

A carotid artery screening is a non-invasive procedure that creates a picture of the health of major arteries in the neck. Since this is a non-invasive procedure, it is also painless and requires little in the way of preparation. An individual can expect to be asked to lie still as a technician scans arteries with a wand-like instrument.

Typically, the technician conducting the carotid artery screening will ask the patient to lie on a table, usually looking up at the ceiling. The only preparation is to apply a gel to the neck of the patient, which helps in creating an ultrasound image. Due to the application of the gel, it is usually advised that the patient not wear a tight-fitting or high-collared shirt to the exam. The patient will usually be asked to remove necklaces, long earrings, and other types of jewelry that can interfere with the test. The technician will thoroughly scan both sides of the neck, and ultrasound images will be broadcast on a computer screen.

The images will reveal the health of the carotid arteries. These large arteries supply a large portion of the brain with blood and oxygen; a buildup of plaque or blood clots can be a precursor to a stroke. Medical professionals are looking for this narrowing of the artery, which can show up on the ultrasound. Also called stenosis, narrowing of the carotid artery can lessen the amount of oxygenized blood flowing to the brain.

In addition to checking to ensure that the carotid arteries are not narrowed, medical professionals can also measure the flow of blood carried to the brain. This can help detect any blockages that do not show up on the screening. Some individuals, especially those with a family history of stroke, choose to have a carotid artery screening done with an annual physical.

After the carotid artery screening, the medical professional will typically discuss the findings. This can include conversations about the health of the arteries and, in turn, the degree of risk the patient is at for conditions such as carotid artery disease or stroke. If the carotid artery screening helps to determine that the individual is at risk or showing signs of developing risk factors, lifestyle changes may be discussed during or after the test. These can include the beginning of a low-fat diet, increasing exercise, giving up smoking, and cutting back on alcohol consumption. Obesity and high blood pressure can also contribute to carotid artery difficulties, and the medical professional may discuss ways to avert possible dangers.