Carotid Doppler

At The Heartbeat Clinic, we provide advanced Carotid Doppler ultrasound services to assess the health of your carotid arteries and identify potential risks for stroke and other cardiovascular conditions. Our team of skilled professionals uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure precise and reliable results, helping you manage your cardiovascular health proactively.

What is a Carotid Doppler?

The carotid arteries are the main blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain. A Carotid Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that employs high-frequency sound waves to create images of these arteries. By assessing blood flow through the carotid arteries, the test can identify any blockages or narrowing that could increase the risk of stroke.

Purpose of a Carotid Doppler

A Carotid Doppler is performed to:

A Carotid Doppler is performed to:
- Detect Carotid Artery Stenosis: Identify the narrowing of the carotid arteries due to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup), which can reduce blood flow to the brain and increase the risk of stroke.
- Evaluate Symptoms: Investigate symptoms related to carotid artery disease, such as sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, sudden vision problems, dizziness, or transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes).
- Monitor Treatment: Assess the effectiveness of treatments, such as medication or surgery, in patients with known carotid artery disease.
- Preventive Screening: Screen individuals at high risk for stroke, including those with a history of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

What to Expect During a Carotid Doppler?

Preparation

There is usually no special preparation needed for a Carotid Doppler ultrasound. You may be advised to avoid wearing necklaces or other accessories around the neck area to allow clear access for the ultrasound transducer.

Procedure

During the test, you will lie on an examination table. A gel will be applied to your neck, and a handheld device called a transducer will be moved over the area. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off the blood vessels and create images on a monitor. The procedure is painless and typically takes about 30 minutes.

Monitoring

Once complete, the gel will be wiped off, and you can resume your normal activities immediately. A specialist will analyze the images and discuss the results with you.

Risks

A Carotid Doppler ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive procedure with no known risks. It does not involve radiation exposure, making it a safe choice for repeated use if necessary.

Results

The results of a Carotid Doppler can help identify:

Narrowing or Blockage

Detecting the degree of narrowing or blockage in the carotid arteries, which can indicate a risk for stroke.

Plaque Buildup

Assessing the presence and characteristics of atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries.

Blood Flow Abnormalities

Identifying any abnormalities in blood flow that could indicate potential cardiovascular issues.

Why Choose Us?

Experienced Medical Team: Our vascular specialists have extensive experience interpreting Carotid Doppler results and providing accurate diagnoses.
Advanced Technology: We use the latest ultrasound technology to ensure high-quality images and precise measurements.
Personalized Care: The Heartbeat Clinic offers customized care plans tailored to your needs and health conditions, ensuring you receive the best care.

Appreciated by Our Patients

See what our patients say about the care they received at our clinic. Each story shows our dedication to top-notch heart care and patient happiness.

Schedule Your Carotid Doppler Ultrasound Today

If you are concerned about your risk of stroke or have symptoms suggesting carotid artery disease, a Carotid Doppler ultrasound at the Heartbeat Clinic can provide critical insights into your vascular health. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take a proactive step towards protecting your brain and overall well-being.