A Tool For Stroke Prevention

Carotid Doppler ultrasounds are a cutting-edge, diagnostic tool that play a crucial role in preventing stroke and assessing vascular health.

This noninvasive imaging procedure provides detailed insights into the condition of the carotid arteries.

Carotid arteries are vital blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. It is crucial that healthcare providers are able to detect, evaluate, and manage any conditions that may affect the function of these arteries, such as carotid artery disease.

The annual stroke occurrence rate in Canada has increased to one every 5 minutes

Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2022

Test : Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
Early Detection Of : Stroke, Heart Disease, Carotid Artery Disease, Blockage in the Arteries

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Carotid Doppler Ultrasound

A carotid ultrasound is a test that uses sound waves to create images of what your carotid arteries look like on the inside.

It does not use radiation.

By using the Doppler ultrasound technique, your healthcare provider can also see how well your blood travels through your two carotid arteries, which take blood to your brain.

A computer takes the information from the transducer (the device your provider places on your skin) and uses it to make carotid ultrasound images on a monitor. Your provider can record videos of the scans or save snapshots of them like photos.

Monitors Conditions Related to the Carotid Arteries

The primary purpose of a carotid Doppler ultrasound is to screen for and evaluate various conditions related to the carotid arteries, which are major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain.

Detecting Carotid Artery Disease

Evaluating Blood Flow

Narrowing or Blockage in Your Artery

The most common reason for this test is to identify the presence of carotid artery disease. This is identified by the build-up of plaque within the carotid arteries. This plaque can cause the arteries to narrow, thus reducing the blood flow to the brain and increasing the risk of stroke.

The exam provides information on the blood flow rate and patterns within the carotid arteries, which can help in assessing the overall vascular health of the patient.

The ultrasound can determine the degree of stenosis, or narrowing, in the carotid arteries. This information is crucial in assessing the risk of stroke and guiding treatment decisions.

Benefits of a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound

A carotid Doppler ultrasound is a valuable tool in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of carotid artery disease, helping to reduce the risk of stroke and improve patient outcomes.

Non-Invasive

One of the main benefits of a carotid Doppler ultrasound is that it is a non-invasive procedure. It does not require any surgical incisions or exposure to radiation, making it a safe and comfortable diagnostic tool.

Early Detection

It is effective at detecting carotid artery disease at an early stage, which allows for timely intervention and preventive measures to reduce the risk of stroke.

Risk Assessment

The scan helps assess the risk of stroke in individuals with known risk factors for vascular disease, enabling healthcare providers to develop appropriate management and treatment plans.

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How a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound Works

Step 1: Application of Gel to the Neck

Your healthcare provider will begin by applying some clear gel on the sides of your neck, as your carotid arteries are located on the sides of your neck. The gel makes it easier for sound waves to travel between your arteries and the transducer your provider uses. It is important not to move around during the exam so that the images are of better quality.

Step 2: Transducer

While you are lying on your back, your provider will press the transducer against the sides of your neck. The sound waves coming out of and back into the transducer after hitting your arteries along the way will tell the computer what the image looks like. Your provider will keep moving the transducer over your skin until they have all the images they need.

Step 3: Recovery

Once the exam is done, your healthcare provider will give you a towel to wipe the gel off of your neck. Then, you may get dressed and go home if you are not receiving your results right away. You may resume your normal activities without any downtime.

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Reasons to Get a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound

A carotid Doppler ultrasound may be recommended for various reasons, mainly related to evaluating the carotid arteries in the neck.

Stroke Risk Assessment

Individuals with risk factors for stroke, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of smoking, may need a carotid Doppler ultrasound to assess their risk of carotid artery disease, a condition that increases the risk of stroke.

Screening for Atherosclerosis

Those with known atherosclerosis or vascular disease may have regular carotid Doppler ultrasounds to monitor the progression of plaque build-up in their carotid arteries.

Assessment of Blood Flow

Carotid Doppler ultrasounds provide valuable insights about blood flow within the carotid arteries and can help in diagnosing conditions that affect blood flow to the brain.

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Each package includes a comprehensive 1 hour physical exam and 1 hour medical review of results with recommendations to achieve optimal health.

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FAQ

How do I prepare for a carotid Doppler ultrasound?

You do not need to do anything specific to prepare for a carotid Doppler exam, but you may want to wear a comfortable shirt that does not cover your neck and is not too tight. Avoid wearing any necklaces or earrings, as they might be in the way.

How long does a carotid Doppler ultrasound take?

A carotid Doppler ultrasound typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.

What are the risks of a carotid Doppler ultrasound?

This exam does not have any risks. You may feel some slight pressure when the transducer pushes on your neck, but there is no pain associated with it.

What do the results of a carotid Doppler ultrasound mean?

You will get a result that tells you whether or not your arteries are blocked, and by how much. This will be a percentage out of 100. If you get a normal result, this means that your arteries are not blocked.

If your results are not normal, you may have atherosclerosis, a blood clot, or some other problem that makes your artery too narrow and puts you at risk for a stroke.

What are the risk factors for a stroke?

You may be at a higher risk of a stroke if you have any of the following:

Additionally, eating a high-fat high-salt diet, smoking, and a lack of exercise can also increase your risk of a stroke.

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