You might not think much about your arteries — until there’s a problem with one of them. High blood pressure can damage the lining of your arteries, and depending on which arteries are damaged, that can lead to heart attacks or strokes.
Dr. Rogers Walker knows the dangers of unmanaged high blood pressure and how it can affect your arteries. That’s why our team here at Walker Family Care team in Little River, South Carolina, prioritizes healthy blood pressure management through lifestyle modifications and, if needed, medication.
If you have concerns about high blood pressure, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. In the meantime, keep reading as Dr. Walker zeroes in on one specific artery: your carotid artery.
The carotid artery is an important blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood to your brain, face, and neck. There are two carotid arteries in your body — one on each side of the neck — and each has a unique function to keep your brain and face/neck properly nourished.
Both of your carotid arteries branch off from your aorta, your body’s main artery. Each carotid artery then divides off into two main branches: your internal carotid artery and your external carotid artery.
This branch delivers oxygenated blood directly to your brain. Your brain requires a constant supply of oxygen to function, and even a brief disruption can cause serious damage, such as a stroke.
This artery supplies blood to your face, scalp, neck, and the outer parts of your skull.
You have an internal carotid artery and an external carotid artery on both your left and right sides.
Your brain takes up only 2% of your total body weight, but it uses about 18% of your body’s blood supply, and any interruption can lead to significant health issues, including:
If there is any blockage in your carotid artery or if the artery narrows, you’re at risk of having a stroke. A stroke happens when the blood flow to your brain is restricted, and it can’t get enough oxygen.
TIAs are sometimes called mini-strokes, but that shouldn’t downplay their severity. A TIA occurs when blood flow to the brain is temporarily disrupted and causes stroke-like symptoms that resolve within minutes to hours.
However, about 33% of people who have a TIA have a full-blown stroke within the year.
Keeping your carotid arteries healthy (and all arteries for that matter) can help you avoid serious complications of arterial diseases. To keep your arteries healthy:
High blood pressure can damage the walls of the carotid arteries and increase your risk of plaque buildup and blockages.
The good news is that high blood pressure can be managed with lifestyle modifications. If lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, Dr. Walker can prescribe medication to safely lower your levels.
Smoking damages your vascular system — it contributes to atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) — and contributes to plaque formation. If you currently smoke, consider smoking cessation for the sake of all of your arteries, including your carotid arteries.
Exercise is good for your entire mind and body, and your carotid arteries are no exception. According to research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, exercise can both prevent and improve carotid atherosclerosis.
A diet that’s high in saturated fats, cholesterol, and processed foods can contribute to the buildup of plaque in your carotid arteries. On the other hand, a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help maintain clear carotid arteries.
Carotid artery disease often develops silently without symptoms. However, signs of major trouble may include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body, difficulty speaking, sudden vision problems, or dizziness.
These can be warning signs of an impending stroke. If you suspect that you or a loved one is having a stroke or a TIA, call 9-1-1 or head to the nearest emergency room.
High blood pressure and plaque formation are more or less silent. You might not realize you have either condition until a serious event happens. That’s why routine care, regular blood pressure screenings, and annual physicals are so important.
If Dr. Walker spots any concerns during your exam, he can recommend lifestyle changes and medications to help keep your carotid arteries as healthy as possible.
Give us a call, or use our online scheduling system to book your next exam.
