Carotid artery disease
Medical term · C
Narrowing of the carotid artery by the buildup of plaque. Sometimes called carotid artery stenosis. It is a major risk factor for ischemic stroke.
Related terms
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Ischemic strokeA stroke caused by an interruption in the flow of blood to the brain; almost always caused by a blood clot blocking a blood vessel.
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Carotid arteryOne of two major blood vessels found on either side of the neck. The carotid arteries supply blood to the brain.
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Risk factorAny factor that can cause a person to be more likely to develop a disease. For example, smoking is a risk factor for lung cancer.
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StenosisAn abnormal narrowing of a passageway, such as a blood vessel, or other type of opening in the body.