Screening for Stroke/Carotid Artery Disease
The stroke/carotid artery disease screening procedure is simple, painless, and non-invasive. You will be asked to lie on your back on an exam table. After gel is applied to your neck, an instrument called a transducer will be placed on your neck to create images of the carotid arteries and assess the rate of blood flow within them.
What you can learn
Life Line Screening uses Doppler colour flow ultrasound technology to create images of the carotid arteries and measure the blood flow through these vessels. The amount of plaque build up in the arteries and the speed of the blood flow are reported as one of the following:
- Within normal range
- Mild/moderate risk
- Moderate risk
- Findings of possible significance
Who should have stroke screenings?
Anyone over age 50, or over age 40 with risk factors for stroke, carotid artery disease, or atrial fibrillation (also known as irregular heartbeat), should have this screening.
How often should you get screened?
This is a personal decision based on your risk factors and previous screening results. Many of our customers choose to have annual screenings as part of their regular healthcare regime. Remember that getting screened for carotid artery disease plus atrial fibrillation provides you with a more complete assessment of your stroke risk.
How to prepare
When you go to have a stroke / carotid artery disease screening, remember:
- Wear a shirt that is open at the collar and short-sleeved.
- Do not wear a turtleneck.
