Carotid arteries are blood vessels that supply the front and middle parts of the brain. The rear part of the brain is supplied by the vertebral arteries.
Blockages of these vessels can lead to paralysis (stroke) leading to weakness, vision disturbances and or death.
This type of stroke, known as ischemic stroke, accounts for approximately 87% of strokes.
Ischemic stroke can be caused by a problem with the blood vessels that supply the heart or the brain.
People with damaged blood vessels have a higher risk of recurrent attacks of stroke / paralysis.
Risk factors for carotid disease and stroke
Hypertension
Diabetes
Coronary artery disease
High cholesterol
Smoking
Alcohol consumption
Physical inactivity
The increasing age
History of stroke
