Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability, and many strokes are linked to plaque buildup in the carotid arteries in the neck. A carotid ultrasound is a simple, painless way to check those arteries. Here is who should consider a carotid ultrasound in Miami and what the test involves.
Stroke warning signs (BE FAST): Balance loss, Eye changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911. Do not wait for an outpatient test if you have these symptoms.
What Are the Carotid Arteries?
You have two carotid arteries, one on each side of your neck. They carry oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your brain. Over time, fatty plaque can build up inside them (atherosclerosis), narrowing the artery. Pieces of plaque can also break off and travel to the brain, causing a stroke or a mini-stroke (TIA).
What a Carotid Ultrasound Shows
A carotid duplex ultrasound combines standard imaging with Doppler to measure blood flow. It shows:
- Plaque buildup in the artery walls
- How narrow the artery has become (stenosis), estimated as a percentage
- The speed and direction of blood flow
- Blockages or abnormal flow patterns
Who Should Get a Carotid Ultrasound?
Your doctor may order the test if you have:
- A recent TIA or stroke symptoms that have resolved
- A whooshing sound (bruit) heard in the neck with a stethoscope
- Several risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity or a family history of stroke
- Known disease in other arteries, such as coronary artery disease or peripheral artery disease
- Follow-up after a carotid procedure
How to Prepare
No preparation is needed. Eat and take your medications as usual. Wear a shirt with an open collar and leave necklaces at home. Bring your physician’s order and a photo ID.
What to Expect
You lie on your back with your head turned slightly away from the side being scanned. The sonographer applies gel and moves the transducer along your neck from the collarbone to just below the jaw. You will hear the Doppler sound of blood flow. The exam takes about 30 minutes and is completely painless.
Results
A board-certified radiologist interprets your study, and the report goes to your ordering physician within 48 business hours. Depending on the findings, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medication, follow-up scans or a specialist referral.
Related Heart and Vascular Tests
- Echocardiogram: an ultrasound of the heart. Read echocardiogram vs. EKG.
- Abdominal aorta ultrasound: screening for an aortic aneurysm.
- Venous Doppler ultrasound: checking leg veins for clots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a carotid ultrasound take?
About 30 minutes.
Is a carotid ultrasound safe?
Yes. It uses sound waves only, with no radiation and no needles.
Do I need a doctor’s order for a carotid ultrasound?
Yes. Please bring a written order from your physician.
Book a Carotid Ultrasound in Miami
Schedule online or call 786-353-9160, Monday through Friday. See all vascular and ultrasound services.
