Carotid plaque measuring 6.6x2.6 mm, is it severe?

Mar 26, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Jiang Chenggang

Introduction

Carotid plaque is a manifestation of carotid atherosclerosis. A plaque measuring 6.6x2.6 mm may lead to impaired blood flow and thrombus formation, which is generally considered quite serious. Patients should pay attention to modifying unhealthy lifestyle habits to prevent more severe consequences. It is also recommended to promptly visit a hospital for relevant examinations and receive timely treatment based on the results to prevent disease progression.

Carotid plaque is a manifestation of carotid atherosclerosis. A plaque measuring 6.6×2.6 mm may cause impaired blood flow and thrombus formation, which is generally considered quite serious. The specific analysis is as follows:

The carotid artery is a vital pathway supplying blood to the brain. When a plaque measuring 6.6×2.6 mm develops in the carotid artery, it may impede normal blood flow, increasing the risk of cerebral ischemia. Additionally, if the carotid plaque detaches, it can form a thrombus that blocks blood vessels, leading to symptoms of brain ischemia. These may include sensory disturbances, motor dysfunction, balance problems, difficulty swallowing, and altered consciousness. In severe cases, complications such as seizures, pneumonia, gastrointestinal bleeding, or even respiratory and cardiac arrest may occur. Therefore, this condition is quite serious and requires prompt, standardized treatment to facilitate early recovery.

Patients should pay attention to modifying unhealthy lifestyle habits to prevent more severe consequences. It is also recommended to visit a hospital promptly for relevant examinations and, based on the results, initiate timely treatment to prevent disease progression.

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Is a 50mm carotid plaque considered large?

A carotid plaque measuring 50 mm is considered large and may require attention and treatment. Carotid artery plaque refers to the accumulation of cholesterol, calcium, and other substances within the carotid artery, forming plaque-like deposits that can lead to vessel narrowing or blockage, thereby increasing the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. The size of carotid artery plaque is typically assessed using intima-media thickness (IMT) of the carotid artery.

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Can carotid artery plaques be eliminated by taking atorvastatin?

Carotid plaque should be treated with atorvastatin as directed by a physician. This medication can generally help reduce carotid plaques, primarily because it works by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the liver, lowering blood cholesterol levels, reducing the raw materials for plaque formation, and slowing the rate of plaque progression. Additionally, atorvastatin can stabilize existing plaques, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

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Can exercise eliminate carotid artery plaques?

In general, exercise cannot directly eliminate carotid artery plaques. Carotid artery plaques are the result of atherosclerosis, referring to deposits of lipids, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances that form on the arterial walls. These plaques gradually grow larger, leading to narrowing and blockage of blood vessels, thereby impairing blood flow. Once formed within the arterial wall, carotid plaques are relatively stable.

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Where is the best acupoint for moxibustion to treat carotid plaque?

There is no such thing as "which acupoint is best for moxibustion in carotid plaque." However, moxibustion at acupoints such as Dazhui (GV14), Fengchi (GB20), Fengfu (GV16), Tianzhu (BL10), and Tianchuang (SI16) may be beneficial for carotid plaque. The Dazhui point is located in the nape of the neck, in the depression below the spinous process of the cervical vertebra—specifically 1.5 cun above the spinous process along the midline of the neck. Stimulating this point can help promote the circulation of qi and blood in the chest, abdomen, and upper limbs.

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Should a 15mm carotid artery plaque be treated?

Carotid plaque refers to plaques or deposits that form on the walls of the carotid arteries in the neck, typically composed of cholesterol, calcium, and other substances. A 15mm carotid plaque usually requires treatment. Mild cases can be managed under a doctor's guidance with antiplatelet medications to prevent platelet aggregation. Severe cases may require surgical intervention.

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Are carotid thickening and carotid plaque the same thing?

In general, carotid thickening and carotid plaque are not the same thing. Carotid thickening is an early manifestation of carotid plaque formation, and therefore they are not equivalent. Carotid thickening occurs as a precursor to plaque development, often due to prolonged high blood lipid levels. In contrast, carotid plaque represents the presence of carotid atherosclerosis.

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Is a 6.6x2.6 carotid artery plaque severe?

Carotid plaque measuring 6.6 mm x 2.6 mm is significant. However, assessment should also take into account the patient's specific clinical condition. Carotid plaque, also known as atherosclerotic plaque in the carotid artery, refers to plaque formed on the inner wall of the neck's carotid artery due to deposits of lipids, cholesterol crystals, and other substances, leading to narrowing or blockage of the blood vessel lumen. This condition may result in carotid artery stenosis or occlusion.

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What should patients with carotid artery plaque drink as herbal infusion?

In general, patients with carotid artery plaques may benefit from drinking water infused with cassia seeds, goji berries, chrysanthemum, hawthorn, and dandelion as directed by a physician. Cassia seeds have the effects of clearing the liver, improving vision, moistening the intestines, and promoting bowel movements. They can help eliminate metabolic waste and reduce cholesterol accumulation, thereby providing certain benefits for patients with carotid artery plaques. In addition, drinking infusions made from green tea or lotus leaves may also be beneficial.

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