Cerebrovascular diseases ranked as the fifth leading cause of death in 2022, according to Statistics Korea. Among these, it is known that about 15% of cerebral infarctions are caused by carotid artery disease, an underlying predisposing condition.
The carotid arteries, located on both sides of the neck and responsible for supplying about 80% of the blood flow to the brain, play a crucial role in delivering blood from the heart to the brain. Even a brief interruption in blood supply can lead to brain damage, making these vessels extremely important.
Carotid artery stenosis, a condition in which the arteries narrow or become blocked, frequently occurs in these arteries, with atherosclerosis being the primary cause.
Various risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and old age can cause cholesterol and other substances to accumulate on the inner walls of the arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow. If debris from the arteries breaks off and blocks a cerebral vessel, it can lead to cerebral infarction.
Carotid artery stenosis typically presents no symptoms in its early stages, but as the narrowing becomes more severe, symptoms such as transient unilateral paralysis, dizziness, vision loss, and speech disturbances may occur.
Diagnosis is made through carotid ultrasound, CT, MRI, or catheter angiography. In early stages, observation is conducted with medication and risk factor management. If the carotid artery is narrowed by more than 50% or if there are symptoms such as cerebral infarction or transient paralysis, surgical intervention to widen the narrowed section may be considered at the discretion of medical professionals.
Choi Jaehyuk, Director of the Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Center at Daedong Hospital (neurosurgeon), advised, "Not only carotid artery stenosis but also other vascular stenoses can be prevented through proper management. It is important to actively manage risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol, and those in high-risk groups should regularly check their health status through routine examinations."
To prevent cerebrovascular diseases, it is recommended to refrain from smoking and drinking, maintain a healthy weight, exercise appropriately, manage stress, consume high-quality nutrients, and undergo regular checkups for blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. If you have a family history or even one risk factor for cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, you should visit a nearby medical institution to periodically check your health status.
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