For specific treatment, see stroke.

Medicine may be prescribed for:

• High blood pressure  
• Cholesterol problem

Surgery to remove the plaque from the carotid (neck) arteries may be needed, especially if more than 70% of the carotid artery is blocked. The procedure is called carotid endarterectomy.

Stroke is a leading cause of death in the United States. About 25% of people who have a stroke die from the stroke itself or complications. About half have long-term problems.

However, 25% of people who have a stroke recover most or all of their function.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms occur.

Images

Carotid stenosis, X-ray of the right artery

Arteries of the brain

Carotid stenosis, X-ray of the left artery

Review Date: 02/20/2007
Reviewed By: Updated by: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: Greg Juhn, M.T.P.W., David R. Eltz, Kelli A. Stacy. Previously reviewed by Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.(April 2006)

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)