Carotid Ultrasound: Screening for Stroke Risk

We often worry about our heart health, checking our blood pressure and cholesterol numbers religiously. But how often do you think about the health of your neck?

 

It sounds like a strange question, but your neck holds the key to your brain's blood supply: the Carotid Arteries.

 

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in Canada. The frightening reality is that many strokes occur without any prior warning. However, for many patients, the risk factors are visible long before a stroke happens—if you know where to look.

 

At Frontier Diagnostics in Guelph, we use advanced ultrasound technology to look inside these vital arteries, helping your doctor assess your risk of stroke before it’s too late.

 

What are the Carotid Arteries?

You have two main carotid arteries, one on each side of your neck. If you place your fingers gently under your jawline, you can feel them pulsing. Their job is to deliver oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your brain.

 

The Problem: Plaque Buildup (Atherosclerosis)

Over time, substances like cholesterol, fat, and calcium can build up on the inner walls of these arteries. This is called plaque.

 

As plaque accumulates, it hardens and narrows the artery (a condition called stenosis). Think of it like a garden hose getting pinched; less water can get through.

 

The real danger, however, isn't just the narrowing. It is that a small piece of this plaque can break off (embolize) and travel up into the brain, blocking a smaller vessel. This causes a stroke.

 

How Ultrasound Helps

A Carotid Doppler Ultrasound is a great test to screen these arteries. It is completely non-invasive, uses no radiation, and is painless.

 

During the exam at our Guelph clinic:

1. You lie on an exam bed with your head turned slightly to the side.

2. Our technologist puts warm gel on your neck.

3. We use a specialized probe to visualize the artery walls.

4. We use Doppler technology (which you might hear as a rhythmic "whooshing" sound) to measure the speed of your blood flow.

 

The Physics of Prevention: If the blood is moving too fast, it means it is being forced through a narrow opening—just like putting your thumb over the end of a hose makes the water spray faster. This tells our radiologist exactly how much narrowing is present.

 

Who Should Consider a Carotid Ultrasound?

In Ontario, this test is typically covered by OHIP when ordered by your physician for a medical reason. You should ask your doctor about a requisition if you have:

• A "Bruit": This is a turbulent sound your doctor might hear through their stethoscope when listening to your neck during a physical.

• High Risk Factors: A history of smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

• Family History: If a parent or sibling suffered a stroke or heart attack at a young age.

• Symptoms of a TIA (Mini-Stroke): Sudden blurry vision, weakness on one side of the body, or slurred speech that disappears quickly.

 

How to Prepare

This is one of the easiest exams to prepare for!

• No Fasting: You can eat and drink normally.

• Clothing: Wear a shirt with a low collar or an open neck (no turtlenecks) so we can easily access your neck.

• Medications: Take all your regular medications.

 

Prevention is Power

A stroke can change your life in an instant, but it is also highly preventable. Identifying carotid artery disease early allows your doctor to start treatments—like lifestyle changes or medication—to stabilize the plaque and protect your brain.

 

If you have a requisition for a Carotid Ultrasound (or "Carotid Doppler"), bring it to Frontier Diagnostics. We offer flexible appointments and rapid reporting to give you peace of mind faster.

 

Click here to book your vascular ultrasound appointment.

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This blog is for general information only and isn’t intended to be medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your own health.