Carotid Artery Ultrasound Checks Thickening Arteries November 6
In a previous post, we talked about taking care of one’s heart and the latest screening tests that one can keep in mind. We also talked about Coronary Calcium Scores. This time, we will be talking about the Carotid Artery Ultrasound.
The Carotid Artery Ultrasound makes use of ultrasound as well as sophisticated software to measure the occurrence of thickening in the inner walls of the carotid arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. Such an occurrence is a sign of early onset of atherosclerosis. Risk levels were determined based on percentile ranking among patients belonging to the same age group; those who belong to 75th percentile – meaning 75% of his or her peers have less arterial thickening – will most probably have a higher risk of developing coronary heart disease and stroke.
As in coronary calcium scores, the carotid artery ultrasound is recommended for people who are at immediate risk for heart disease based on the traditional risk factors. Both of these tests are reportedly recommended by the Society of Heart Attack Prevention and Eradication (SHAPE) for men over the age of 45 and women over the age of 55.
The good thing about the carotid artery ultrasound, which might be attractive to some patients, is that it is painless and non-invasive. It can be easily performed right at the doctor’s office and does not expose the patient to radiation.
This test, however, does not have the ability to provide information about the heart, since it is only looking at the arteries in the neck. The accuracy of the test is also highly dependent upon the skills of the operator, who should be updated regarding current guidelines and protocols.
As always, we encourage readers who are interested in this or any other screenings to talk to their respective physicians.
Tags: Carotid Artery Ultrasound, ensure health heart, prevent heart attack, prevent heart disease, prevent stroke, stroke, thickening of arteries