Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, is shedding light on when a carotid artery stent may be needed to improve blood flow and help prevent strokes.

Knowing when a carotid artery stent is the right choice can be life-saving. This advanced yet straightforward procedure can restore blood flow to the brain and help prevent devastating strokes, one of the world’s leading causes of death and disability.

The carotid arteries, found on either side of the neck, carry oxygen-rich blood to the brain. Over time, these vital vessels can become narrowed by fatty deposits known as plaque, a condition called carotid artery disease. As the arteries narrow, blood flow to the brain decreases, raising the risk of a stroke, which occurs when the blood supply is suddenly cut off, causing damage or even death of brain cells.

Early detection and treatment are key. Understanding how carotid artery disease develops, who is most at risk, and when a stent might be recommended empowers patients and families to make informed health decisions.

Symptoms to Watch For

Carotid artery disease often develops silently. In many cases, people are unaware they have a problem until they experience a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), also known as a “mini-stroke”. Warning signs may include: sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs (especially on one side of the body), trouble speaking or understanding speech, sudden vision problems, dizziness or difficulty walking, and severe, unexplained headaches.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

What is a Carotid Artery Stent?

Carotid artery stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked carotid arteries. During the procedure, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted into the artery (usually through the groin). A small balloon is used to widen the narrowed area, and a stent — a tiny mesh tube — is placed inside to keep the artery open.

The goal of a stent is to restore blood flow and reduce the risk of stroke without the need for more invasive surgery.

When is a Stent the Best Option?

Carotid artery stenting may be recommended in specific situations:

• Moderate to severe narrowing: When the artery is more than 70% blocked, and symptoms such as a TIA or minor stroke have already occurred.
• High surgical risk: For patients who aren’t ideal candidates for open surgery due to age, underlying health conditions, or previous neck surgery.
• Anatomical factors: When the blockage is located in an area that’s difficult to access surgically.
• Emergencies: When blood flow needs to be restored urgently to prevent a major stroke.
• Faster recovery preference: For patients who need or prefer a less invasive procedure with shorter recovery times.

Risks and Considerations

Like all procedures, carotid artery stenting carries risks such as stroke during or after the procedure, bleeding or infection at the catheter site, re-narrowing of the artery, or blood clots forming around the stent. Doctors carefully assess each patient’s unique risk factors before recommending this treatment.

Alternatives to Stenting

In some cases, carotid endarterectomy (CEA)—open surgery to remove plaque—remains the standard treatment. For those with mild narrowing, medication and lifestyle adjustments may be enough to manage the condition and reduce stroke risk.

Prevention and Lifestyle Support

Preventing or slowing carotid artery disease often comes down to lifestyle choices: quit smoking, eat a heart-healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.

Importance of Early Detection

Screening methods such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI can detect narrowing before it causes symptoms. People with risk factors like obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease should discuss testing with their healthcare provider.

Key Facts about Carotid Artery Stenting

• A stent is a small mesh tube that keeps arteries open to maintain blood flow.
• The procedure is less invasive than open surgery, usually performed via a catheter through the groin.
• Stenting is most often recommended for patients with severe artery narrowing or those at high risk of surgery.
• Recovery is typically faster than with open surgery, but monitoring and follow-up are essential.
• Lifestyle changes and medication remain critical after stenting to prevent future artery narrowing.

Conclusion

Carotid artery stenting has become an important, life-saving option for people at risk of stroke due to narrowed arteries. While it’s not suitable for everyone, understanding the warning signs, getting regular check-ups, and discussing treatment options with a healthcare professional can make all the difference. Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, remains key to long-term prevention. Affinity Health offers easy access to doctors, telehealth consultations, and nationwide support to help individuals protect their heart and brain health.

About Affinity Health

Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health cover provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.