As a medical professional, I can provide you with information on the signs of blocked arteries in the neck, which is a condition known as carotid artery stenosis. This condition can lead to a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), and it's important to recognize the symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
**Signs and symptoms of a stroke or TIA include:**
1.
Sudden numbness or weakness in the face or limbs, often on only one side of the body.
2.
Sudden trouble speaking and understanding.
3.
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
4.
Sudden dizziness or loss of balance.
5.
Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.
These symptoms are often referred to as the "FAST" acronym, which stands for:
- Face: Ask the person to smile to see if one side of the face droops.
- Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one arm drifts downward.
- Speech: Listen for slurred speech or difficulty in speaking.
- Time: If any of these symptoms are present, time is critical. Call emergency services immediately.
It's important to note that not all patients with carotid artery stenosis will experience these symptoms. Some may have no symptoms at all, while others may have less severe symptoms such as dizziness or difficulty concentrating. Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect carotid artery stenosis before it leads to a stroke.
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