Understanding Atherosclerosis Screening- Carotid Ultrasound, AAA Screening, and Lower Extremity Screening
What Is Atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque—a mix of fat, cholesterol, and other substances—builds up inside the arteries. Over time, this buildup causes the arteries to narrow and harden, limiting blood flow to vital organs.
Left untreated, atherosclerosis can lead to:
Heart attacks
Strokes
Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
Aneurysms
Because the condition often develops silently, early screening is key to preventing these serious outcomes.
Why Screening Matters
Most people don’t realize they have atherosclerosis until they experience a major health event like a heart attack or stroke. Fortunately, non-invasive tests are available to detect the condition early—when treatment is most effective.
At Shafa Medical Clinic, we recommend three key screening tests to help catch atherosclerosis early:
Carotid Ultrasound
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening
Lower Extremity Screening (PAD Testing)
Let’s explore each of these tests in detail.
1. Carotid Ultrasound: Preventing Stroke Before It Happens
Your carotid arteries carry blood to your brain. When plaque builds up in these vessels—a condition known as carotid artery disease—your risk of stroke increases significantly.
What is a Carotid Ultrasound?
A carotid ultrasound is a painless, non-invasive imaging test. It uses sound waves to produce pictures of the arteries in your neck. A technician applies a gel to your skin and moves a handheld device (transducer) over your neck to assess for plaque or narrowing.
Who Should Get Screened?
You may benefit from this test if you have any of the following risk factors:
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Smoking
Diabetes
Family history of stroke or heart disease
Age 50 or older
Detecting narrowing in the carotid arteries early gives doctors the opportunity to start treatment—whether that means medication, lifestyle changes, or procedures—to help prevent a future stroke.
2. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening: Detecting a Silent Threat
The aorta is the largest artery in your body. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) occurs when a portion of the aorta becomes enlarged or weakened in the abdomen. If the aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to sudden internal bleeding and death.
How Is AAA Screening Done?
AAA screening is typically done with a simple ultrasound. The technician places a probe on your abdomen and checks for any enlargement of the aorta.
Who Is at Risk?
AAA is most common in:
Men aged 65–75 who have smoked
Anyone with a family history of AAA
People with high blood pressure or heart disease
Early detection allows doctors to monitor the aneurysm and plan treatment if needed—before it becomes life-threatening.
3. Lower Extremity Screening: Spotting Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a form of atherosclerosis that affects the arteries in your legs. Reduced blood flow can lead to:
Leg pain or cramping when walking
Slow-healing wounds
Numbness or weakness
In severe cases, limb amputation
How Is PAD Diagnosed?
The most common test is the ankle-brachial index (ABI). This non-invasive exam compares blood pressure in your ankle and arm. A low ABI means poor circulation to the legs.
PAD Risk Factors Include:
Age 60 or older
Smoking
Diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Sedentary lifestyle
Early detection of PAD can help prevent complications and improve mobility with the right treatment plan.
Who Should Get Screened for Atherosclerosis?
You should consider screening if you have one or more of the following risk factors:
Age 50 or older
History of smoking
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Family history of cardiovascular disease
Obesity or physical inactivity
Your healthcare provider can help determine which screening tests are appropriate based on your personal risk profile.
Take Action Early
Atherosclerosis often develops slowly and without symptoms. But early detection can help you:
Avoid heart attacks and strokes
Prevent complications like limb loss
Improve your long-term heart and vascular health
By combining screening, lifestyle changes, and medical management, many complications of atherosclerosis can be prevented.
Conclusion
Atherosclerosis is a serious but manageable condition. Simple, non-invasive tests like carotid ultrasound, AAA screening, and PAD screening can catch the disease early and allow for life-saving treatment.
If you’re over 50 or have any cardiovascular risk factors, talk to your doctor about getting screened. At Shafa Medical Clinic, we’re here to support your heart health every step of the way.
Reviewed by Amanda Modesta-Keyhani, M.D., Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Licensed in Arizona on Jan 13, 2025
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