What Is a Carotid Ultrasound?
A carotid ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the carotid arteries—the major blood vessels in your neck that supply blood to your brain. These arteries can become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), which increases your risk of stroke.
The test is painless and does not use radiation. A small handheld device called a transducer is gently moved over your neck, sending and receiving sound waves that are converted into live images of your arteries. Carotid ultrasound allows your doctor to see blood flow in real time and detect any narrowing, blockages, or abnormalities that may require treatment.
Benefits With Our Service
At our facilities, carotid ultrasound is an essential tool for early stroke prevention. We recommend this test for patients with risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking history, high cholesterol, or a family history of stroke. It is also commonly performed for those who have experienced symptoms like transient vision loss, sudden weakness, or dizziness.
Our highly trained team provides precise and detailed imaging, with same-day results in most cases. If narrowing or plaque buildup is found, your doctor can develop a personalized plan to reduce your risk of stroke—whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or referral for further procedures if needed. With our expertise, you receive timely answers and proactive care.
Health Tips & Info
Preparation: No special preparation is usually needed. Wear a comfortable shirt with an open collar or one that is easy to remove. Avoid wearing necklaces during the test.
During the Test: You’ll lie on your back while gel is applied to your neck. The ultrasound probe is moved gently over the skin. The test typically takes 20–30 minutes and is completely painless.
After the Test: You may resume normal activities right away. Results are reviewed by your physician, who will discuss whether there are any signs of narrowing or plaque buildup in your carotid arteries.
Follow-Up: If significant narrowing is detected, your care team may recommend medications, lifestyle adjustments, or referral to a vascular specialist.
By identifying problems early, a carotid ultrasound helps prevent serious complications like stroke and gives you and your doctor the information needed to protect your long-term health.
Carotid Ultrasound Quick Info
A carotid ultrasound is a painless, non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the carotid arteries in your neck. These arteries carry blood to your brain, and the test helps detect plaque buildup or narrowing that could increase your risk of stroke.
Carotid ultrasound is completely safe—no radiation, needles, or dye. It provides real-time images of blood flow to your brain, helping your doctor catch problems early and reduce your risk of stroke.
You may need a carotid ultrasound if your doctor wants to check for narrowing or blockages in the arteries that supply blood to your brain. This test is especially important if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking history, high cholesterol, or a family history of stroke. It may also be recommended if you’ve experienced warning signs such as sudden dizziness, weakness, or temporary vision loss.
No. A carotid ultrasound is completely safe and painless. It does not involve needles, radiation, or contrast dye. You may feel a bit of pressure as the probe is moved along your neck, but most patients find it very comfortable. There are no known risks, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward.
The ultrasound produces live images and measurements of blood flow in your carotid arteries. These images allow your doctor to see if there is any narrowing, plaque buildup, or other problems that could increase your risk of stroke. With this information, your doctor can recommend preventive steps—such as medication, lifestyle changes, or referral to a specialist—before serious complications occur.