Many serious health problems develop silently, without noticeable symptoms, until it’s too late. One of the most overlooked is carotid artery disease, which can lead to strokes, the second leading cause of death globally. According to the American Stroke Association, up to 80% of strokes are preventable with early detection and intervention. Carotid ultrasound screening is a safe, non-invasive way to see if your carotid arteries, the blood vessels supplying your brain, are narrowing or blocked. At TrueView Ultrasound, we use advanced imaging to identify these risks early, giving patients the chance to take preventive action.
How Carotid Ultrasound Screening Works
A carotid ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the carotid arteries in your neck. It can reveal plaque buildup, blood clots, or other abnormalities that reduce blood flow to the brain. Unlike CT scans or X-rays, it does not expose you to radiation. Our ultrasound screenings are performed by skilled sonographers who capture precise images, helping your physician determine the next steps for your care.
Risks You Didn’t Know You Had
The most dangerous risks are often the ones you don’t know about. Carotid artery narrowing can develop slowly over years without causing symptoms. The first sign may be a mini-stroke, also known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or a major stroke. Factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and family history increase your risk. Even people who feel healthy can have underlying plaque buildup, which is why carotid ultrasound screening is recommended for those over 50 or with cardiovascular risk factors.
The Connection Between Carotid Arteries and Brain Health
Your brain depends on a constant supply of oxygen-rich blood. Any blockage or narrowing in the carotid arteries can interrupt this supply, leading to brain cell damage within minutes. Detecting narrowing early allows for lifestyle changes, medication, or procedures to restore proper blood flow. Just like fetal imaging ensures the well-being of developing babies, carotid screening safeguards the long-term health of your brain.
Preparing for a Carotid Ultrasound
Preparation for a carotid ultrasound is simple and stress-free. You don’t need to fast or make major changes before the test. However, wearing a shirt with an open collar makes access to the neck easier for the sonographer. Our ultrasound preparation guide in Roseville helps patients know what to expect, so the process is quick and comfortable. The exam typically takes less than 30 minutes, with immediate results available for review by your healthcare provider.
What Happens After the Screening
If your carotid ultrasound screening shows narrowing or plaque buildup, your doctor may recommend further testing or treatment. This can include lifestyle adjustments like diet and exercise, medications to control blood pressure or cholesterol, or procedures such as carotid endarterectomy or stenting. Early intervention significantly reduces the likelihood of a stroke and other related health complications. Our contact page for ultrasound services in Roseville makes it simple to schedule a follow-up or share your results with your physician.
Conclusion
Carotid ultrasound screening is one of the most effective tools for uncovering hidden risks that could lead to life-changing health events. By detecting narrowing or blockages in the carotid arteries early, you can take preventive measures that dramatically lower your chances of stroke. The test is quick, painless, and provides invaluable insight into your cardiovascular health.
Your health should never be left to chance, especially when simple screenings can reveal problems long before symptoms appear.
TrueView Ultrasound combines advanced imaging technology with expert care to help you stay ahead of silent but serious conditions. Scheduling a carotid ultrasound screening today could be the step that protects your health for years to come.