Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
What is Carotid Doppler Ultrasound?
Carotids are the arteries in your neck that carry blood from the heart to the brain. A Carotid Doppler Ultrasound is a test that utilities sound waves to look for any blockages in the carotid arteries and to examine the blood flow. It is a painless and straightforward procedure that enables physicians to determine if you are at risk of having a stroke or look for narrowed arteries.
Carotid Doppler Ultrasound uses the ultrasound technique, which helps physicians see the blood flow through the blood vessels. It uses water-soluble gel, and a handheld device called the transducer to produce images using sound waves. The ultrasound travels from the device through the gel into the body and then bounces off the blood vessels, creating an image.
Carotid arteries are present on both sides of your neck. If you have any stroke or coronary artery disease symptoms, your physicians may advise you to take the test to determine the treatment.
Why is a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound performed?
Physicians prescribe the carotid ultrasound test if you have any plaque buildup or other substances in your carotid arteries. The test will help to see and evaluate narrowing of the blood vessels, reduced or increased blood flow, blood clots, and the cause of abnormal sound in carotid arteries.
Other risk factors that call for a Carotid Doppler Ultrasound are:
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High cholesterol
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Obesity
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History of heart disease or stroke
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Coronary artery disease
What are the risks involved?
The Carotid Doppler Ultrasound test is painless and simple, and it will be over within 30 minutes. The practitioner will apply a warm gel on either of your carotid arteries, and a transducer is used to transmit the ultrasound waves. You will not feel any discomfort as it is moved back and forth to get the desired images.
What are the necessary preparations for the test?
Some of the basic preparation needs that your physician will suggest are:
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Do not smoke or drink caffeine 2 hours before the test
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Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing (preferably open-neck top)
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Avoid jewelry in the area of examination
