Carotid Ultrasound for Heart and Brain Health
Ultrasound examination of the neck arteries is a diagnostic method used to assess the risk of heart attack and stroke. In an interview, a physician specializing in ultrasound diagnostics within the Atlas clinic network explained how this test can reveal changes that may foretell dangerous events later on. [Atlas clinic network]
The purpose of the study is to identify atherosclerotic plaques that narrow the arteries and raise the chance of ischemia over time, potentially leading to a heart attack or stroke. Ultrasound also provides information about the plaque structure and how likely it is to develop complications such as surface ulcers or rupture, which can trigger blood clots and block blood flow. [Atlas clinic network]
The doctor highlighted that cerebral stroke and myocardial infarction remain among the most common causes of death today. These events are not limited to older adults; younger individuals can be affected as well. There are many factors behind these conditions, but often the key step is not only to search for the source, but to identify a predisposition to life threatening outcomes in the first place. [Atlas clinic network]
It was noted that atherosclerosis rarely occurs in isolation. Detecting plaques in the neck arteries can act as a beacon to explore similar issues in other parts of the body, including the arteries that supply the heart. Early identification through this screening can help prevent serious health crises by enabling timely management. [Atlas clinic network]
In related coverage, questions about how lifestyle choices influence health were discussed, including the impact of diet on men. [Atlas clinic network]