Carotid stenosis is a narrowing of the artery due to a build up of plaque. The carotid arteries are what feeds the brain. When there is a major stenosis or plaque build up it can cause an ischemic stroke, the most common stroke diagnosed.
Stroke symptoms range from weakness in extremities, slurred speech, headache, facial droop, and trouble with gait among 
others. To evaluate a patient for a stroke, normally a routine CT head is done to rule out a bleed. Once this is negative, a carotid ultrasound may be ordered. Oftentimes now, a CTA head and neck is ordered from the ER. When a CTA is performed it is specifically looking at the vessels. Stenosis can be determined with precision accuracy rather than traditional angiography which is more invasive and carries some additional risks.
others. To evaluate a patient for a stroke, normally a routine CT head is done to rule out a bleed. Once this is negative, a carotid ultrasound may be ordered. Oftentimes now, a CTA head and neck is ordered from the ER. When a CTA is performed it is specifically looking at the vessels. Stenosis can be determined with precision accuracy rather than traditional angiography which is more invasive and carries some additional risks.Treatment for this condition depends on the results but ranges from medication to surgery. The most important rule for stroke is early intervention.
The picture at the left top shows an ICA with near total occlusion.
The picture at left bottom shows carotid stenosis which is the dark spot by the area.
MS is a chronic disease with no cure at this time. Symptoms range from visual and gait disturbances early on to tremors, bladder problems, and muscle weakness. Generally the patient will deteriorate to the point that walking aides and/or a wheelchair is necessary. The ability to think and reason is affected as well. Dependence on others oftentimes leads to depression in this disease. Many times the symptoms are very random and no two MS sufferers may present identically.
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