Early Warning Signs of a Blocked Artery in Your Neck—Plus Vital Stroke Prevention Tips

Your arteries play an important role in your cardiovascular health, transporting blood from the heart to all of the body’s cells. And that’s especially true for your carotid (neck) arteries, since these blood vessels carry oxygen-rich blood to your brain. That’s why when your arteries aren’t functioning properly, a myriad of risks arise. Here we reveal common symptoms of a blocked artery in your neck, plus when it’s time to see a doctor. 

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How does a neck artery become blocked?

A blocked neck artery, or carotid artery disease, is a condition that progressively worsens over time and can eventually cause stroke if it completely blocks blood flow. This occurs when the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, head and face, become clogged with plaque, explains James Lyons, MD, Physician with Synergy Houses. 

“This buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances can slowly narrow the artery and limit blood flow,” he says. 

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Risk factors for carotid artery disease

You should talk to your doctor if you have any risk factors for carotid artery disease, as early intervention and managing existing health conditions can lower your stroke risk. 

Dr. Lyons points to the following risk factors: 

• High blood pressure and cholesterol, which can lead to artery narrowing
• Tobacco use, which damages blood vessels and speeds up plaque buildup
• Diabetes, as high blood sugar can weaken blood vessel walls

Signs and symptoms of a blocked artery in the neck

Unfortunately, many people don’t experience symptoms of carotid artery disease until the blockage becomes severe enough to cause a stroke. Symptoms often occur suddenly, and the most common signs of a clogged artery include:

• Numbness or weakness in the face or limbs, often on one side of the body (especially facial droop) 
• Trouble speaking and understanding speech
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Severe headache with no known cause

“Another symptom that is less common involves vision,” adds Jennifer Dinning, MD, Vascular Surgeon at St. Dominic’s Vascular and Endovascular Specialty Associates. “You may experience black vision that comes down like a roller shade which may or may not resolve.”It’s also possible for your doctor to notice a “whooshing” sound (called a bruit) that may be heard on your neck, notes Dr. Dinning. 

When to see a doctor for a blocked artery in your neck

If your doctor finds a bruit during a physical exam but you have no other symptoms, you may be referred to see a vascular surgeon. This is not considered an emergency, says Dr. Dinning. 

However, If you experience symptoms such as weakness or numbness on one side of your body, facial droop, slurred words or black vision, you should go to the emergency room immediately to be screened for a stroke.

“Even if the symptoms go away after a few minutes, they could be a sign of a mini-stroke, also called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which can be a warning sign of a full stroke,” cautions Dr. Lyons. (Learn more about mini-stroke symptoms here.)

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How to prevent a blocked artery in your neck

The good news is that you can take steps to reduce your risk of carotid artery disease. While you can’t change certain risk factors such as a family history of heart disease or aging, adopting healthier lifestyle habits wards off health conditions that can lead to clogged arteries. 

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Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk, says Dr. Lyons. Additionally, eating a diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats and lean proteins while avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods can help keep arteries in good shape. 

Regular exercise improves circulation and keeps blood vessels flexible while also helping to maintain a healthy weight, which can decrease stroke risk.