| Re: Carotid endarterectomy
Well, sometimes there are no symptoms. Look for sudden headaches, lightheadedness, drool when sleeping, etc. It is easy for you pcp to detect if something is wrong. When you go for a check up, have him listen to your carotid arteries to detect blockage. Through an ultrasound, you can detect the percentage of blockage. Surgery is considered for any blockage over 70%. Anything less is usually treated with asprin and lifestyle changes. Depending on where the blockage is in relation to the neck, a carotid endarterectomy can be performed safely. My boyfriend is 61 and he had this done. Oh my God I was so scared, but I think knowledge really helps when you deal with something like this because you know what the drs are talikng about. You can get a lot of good info on the american heart or american stroke association. I am looking to see in post patients, how likely it is to reblock. I pray that doesn't happen because I want it to be over. They say if you make it to two years without the blockage returning, then you are good. Let me know if you need anything else.
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