Carotid Artery Disease/Stroke Screening

The carotid artery/stroke disease screening procedure is simple, painless, and non-invasive. You will be asked to lie on your back on an exam table. After applying gel to your neck, the technologist will move an instrument called a transducer on your neck to create images of the carotid arteries and assess the rate of blood flow within them.

 Watch our video now to see how we perform the carotid artery screening so you know exactly what to expect.

What you can learn

Life Line Screening uses Doppler color flow ultrasound technology to create images of the carotid arteries and measure the blood flow through these vessels. The amount of plaque buildup 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 a carotid artery/stroke screening

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 a carotid artery/stroke screening.

How often to get a carotid artery/stroke screening

This is a personal decision based on your risk factors and previous carotid artery screening and atrial fibrillation screening results. Many of our customers choose to have annual carotid artery/stroke screenings as part of their regular healthcare regimen. Remember that getting your carotid artery disease screening along with the atrial fibrillation screening 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.