Haridwar: On the occasion of World Brain Day, doctors at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dehradun, raise awareness on Carotid Atherosclerosis – a condition where fatty deposits, called plaque, build up in the carotid arteries, the main blood vessels that carry blood to the brain. This build-up can slowly narrow or block the arteries, making it harder for blood to reach the brain and increasing the risk of a stroke.
It is a serious but often unnoticed condition and one of the leading causes of brain stroke. Because it can develop quietly over many years without any clear signs, it is often called a “silent killer.”
In many people, the first warning sign is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or a stroke. A TIA, sometimes called a “mini-stroke,” happens when blood flow to the brain is briefly blocked. This can cause temporary stroke-like symptoms such as weakness, confusion, or difficulty speaking, which usually go away in a short time, but it should never be ignored.
Dr. Nitin Garg, Senior Consultant – Neurology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dehradun, explained that “Carotid Atherosclerosis is often a silent yet serious threat to brain health. Many people remain unaware they have the condition until it leads to a stroke or a transient ischemic attack. On World Brain Day, we urge everyone, especially those with risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of smoking, to undergo regular screenings. Early detection can make a life-saving difference by allowing timely intervention before any symptoms appear.”
Dr. Garg explained about its treatment, adding, “To detect the disease, doctors recommend diagnostic tests such as carotid ultrasound, CT angiography, or MR angiography, which help assess the extent of plaque build-up and blood flow through the arteries. In terms of treatment, the first step involves significant lifestyle modifications, including adopting a balanced diet, quitting smoking, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. Medicines are prescribed to lower cholesterol levels patients, thin the blood, and control blood pressure. If the blockage is severe or the risk of stroke is high, surgical intervention is recommended. This may involve procedures like carotid endarterectomy or stenting to restore proper blood flow.”
Dr. Nitin Garg further emphasized that “The best way to prevent this condition is through regular health check-ups. Just as people routinely undergo heart or full-body health screenings, it is equally important to get a neurological check-up. Early detection and timely management of neurological diseases can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. Therefore, it is essential to consult a neurologist from time to time, especially for those with high-risk factors.”
With this awareness initiative, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dehradun, we urge public that Carotid Atherosclerosis is a silent disease, but its consequences can have a lifelong impact. With awareness, vigilance, and timely treatment, we can prevent the life-threatening risks associated with stroke.
