Causes of Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease occurs when fatty materials called plaque accumulate in the arteries. The accumulation of plaques is called atherosclerosis.
The plaque may slowly obstruct or constrict the carotid artery. It can also cause a clot to form suddenly. A clot that completely obstructs the artery can lead to stroke. Causes of blockage of carotid arteries include:
- Older age
- Alcohol use
- Diabetes [5]
- Recreational drug use
- Trauma to neck area, which may lead to tear in the carotid artery
- Smoking (people who smoke one pack a day increase the risk of having stroke)
- Increased cholesterol and triglycerides
- High blood pressure
- Family history of stroke