Which Drugs Can Reduce The Risk of Stroke?
Your doctor may recommend antiplatelet medications such as aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix) to reduce the risk of stroke caused by blood clots. In most cases, the doctor prescribes medication to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. In some cases, warfarin (coumadin), a blood thinner, may be prescribed.
Medical Procedures That Can Treat Carotid Artery Disease
If the blockage is severe, then a procedure can be done to open the artery. This increases blood flow to the brain to prevent future stroke. In some cases, the doctors prescribe the following procedures;
Carotid Endarterectomy (CEA)
This is the most popular procedure performed for patients who have carotid atherosclerosis and TIAs or mild strokes. While you are under general anesthesia, an incision is done in the neck at the location of the blockage. The surgeon isolates the artery and surgically removes the plaque and affected portion of the artery.
The artery is then sewn back together to enhance proper flow of blood to the brain. The risks and benefits of CEA depends on the age, degree of blockage and if the patient has stroke of TIA.
Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS)
Carotid artery stenting is a recent treatment option. It is less invasive than carotid endarterectomy and is performed in a catheterization laboratory. A little puncture is made in the groin, then a specially designed catheter is threaded to the area of narrowing in the carotid artery.
A small balloon tip is inflated for a few seconds to open the artery. A stent is then put in the artery and expanded to hold the artery open.