Health Tip: At Risk for Carotid Artery Disease?

Here's what may make you more vulnerable

Related Encyclopedia • Aneurysms • Angina Pectoris • Angiogram • Angiography More... Related Healthscout Videos New Improved Metal Hearts Two for One Heart Repair Fixing Foot Drop Targeting the Cause of Austism: Medicine's Next Big Thing? More... Related Animations • Angioplasty • Coronary Bypass Surgery • What is a Heart Attack? • What is Cholesterol? More... Related Drug Information • Accupril • Altace • Avapro • Cartia XT More... Related News Articles • Demanding Relatives May Raise Heart Risks in Middle Age • Electronic Health Records May Not Always Improve Care • Too Much Fried Fish Might Help Make South the 'Stroke Belt' • New Anti-Clotting Drug May Work Better After Hip Replacement More...

(HealthDay News) -- Carotid arteries carry blood to the brain, but they can become narrowed or clogged when sticky substances known as plaque build up in these vessels.

Text Continues Below

---

The U.S. National Library of Medicine says risk factors for carotid artery disease include:

• Having high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• Being diabetic.
• Having heart disease.
• Drinking excessive alcohol.
• Having kidney disease, notably when dialysis is needed.
• Abusing cocaine.
• Having a family history of stroke.
• Getting older.
• Smoking.

-- Diana Kohnle