Diabetes & Vascular Disorders

I have a horrendous Family background of Strokes & Heart Disease as well as Diabetes.
I've been a Insulin Diabetic for 23 years, have had High blood pressure since 35 & am
75.  I also take Lipitor for High Cholestrol.

My Doctor has never ordered a scan of my Carotid arteries for years even though both
my Brother & Father had Carotid Artery surgery.

I recently had several serious eye escapades & numbness to one side of my face.
I asked my Doctor to order a Scan of my Carotid arteries.  She Reluctantly did so
& the test showed my right artery 100% blocked.  I have had other smaller things happen
for 2-3 years.  Now WHAT life do I have left?  I'm very bitter as I had to insist on this
only to get the bad news.

What can I do to help myself with only the left carotid artery OK.  It's not plugged enough
to need surgery.  I'm watching my sugar constantly & really watch my diet.  I take insulin
twice daily.


Darlene T. Holling

[Anita Ramsetty, MD]

HI Ms Holling,
I am sorry you received that discouraging news, but I am glad that it was found before a serious event happened, and hopefully you can go forward with more aggressive treatments now that you know of the blocked carotid.
Have you met with a vascular surgeon to discuss options? After they review your complete history and current health, they may suggest some intervention on the blocked artery. If they do not, there are medications that can lessen the risk of strokes in future, and you should discuss this with your doctor.
Watching your blood sugars and keeping them well controlled, as well as your blood pressure, are the best approaches you can take on your own. Also be sure your cholesterol levels are kept under goal range. Definitely speak with your doctor about medications that may help decrease your chances of strokes with your carotid disease.
All the best to you, hang in there.