Basic Facts

  • Carotid arteries are two blood vessels on either side of the neck that carry blood to the head and brain.
  • Carotid artery disease is a buildup of plaque in these arteries, which can narrow the space through which blood flows.
  • Carotid artery disease is a type of peripheral arterial disease, which is blockage of the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the limbs, head and organs.