Carotid sonograms

Because carotid artery disease can develop without noticeable symptoms, carotid sonograms can be vital for detecting circulation problems early and helping you take steps to protect your long-term health. At AssociatesMD, with locations in Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Weston, Margate, Dania Beach, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the experienced healthcare professionals can help. Schedule an appointment today by phone or online to assess your heart health and discuss personalized treatment options.

What are carotid sonograms?

Carotid sonograms at AssociatesMD (also known as carotid ultrasounds) are noninvasive imaging tests that use sound waves to examine the carotid arteries in your neck, which carry vital oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the brain. 

A carotid sonogram allows the team to evaluate blood flow and identify narrowing arteries, blockages, or plaque buildup that may increase your risk of stroke.

What can carotid sonograms tell me about my health?

A carotid sonogram can help the team identify:

• Carotid artery narrowing (stenosis)
• Reduced blood flow to the brain
• Increased risk of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Early signs of vascular disease

If you have plaque buildup in the carotid arteries, you may also have a similar disease in other blood vessels throughout the body. Early detection allows the AssociatesMD team to recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or additional treatment to help reduce your risk of serious complications.

When are carotid sonograms recommended?

A healthcare provider may recommend a carotid sonogram if you have:

• History of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Dizziness or unexplained fainting
• Sudden vision changes
• Numbness or weakness on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking
• Detection of a carotid bruit (an abnormal sound heard through a stethoscope)

The test may also be recommended if you have significant cardiovascular risk factors, such as:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking history
• Obesity
• Family history of vascular disease
• Coronary artery disease

In some cases, the team may use carotid sonograms to monitor known carotid artery disease or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment over time.

What can I expect at a carotid sonogram appointment?

During your short appointment (typically around 30 minutes), you lie comfortably on an examination table with your head slightly tilted back. 

A technician applies a clear gel to your neck and moves a handheld ultrasound device, called a transducer, over the skin. The transducer sends sound waves into the body and creates images of the carotid arteries on a monitor. You may hear sounds during the test that represent blood flowing through the arteries.

After the exam, your provider reviews the results and discusses any findings with you. If it detects plaque buildup or narrowing, they can recommend appropriate next steps to help reduce your risk of stroke and support your overall vascular health.

Schedule a visit with AssociatesMD today by phone or online to learn more about carotid sonograms.