Can I leave a 100% blocked carotid artery alone? genetic?

[Barbara1970]

I am a 59 year old woman who exercises vigorously regularly and has good cholestrol levels, etc.

About a year ago in a routine checkup and followup tests, I was diagnosed with a 100% blocked carotid artery on one side.  The other carotid was perfect and my doctor told me that I should just get this checked once a year.  (Another test showed that other arteries "took over" for the blocked carotid and between that and the carotid that is completely open, I would be fine).  I went to a cardiologist who was surprised at my having a 100% blocked carotid due to my really good blood test results, etc.  Said it could be a genetic blockage which is very rare. He told me that nothing else could be done for me other than watching my diet, exercising, etc (which I do).

Has anyone else heard of this?  I'm terrified that my other artery will become clogged also. (It is fine now)

Someone mentioned getting a balloon cath which the doctors never addressed.Thanks
Barbara

[ireneo]

I read about another woman with a blocked carotid and yes, it's a scary thought. But it seems that other peripheral vessels will open up under pressure and supply blood flow. You didn't mention having any TIA's or strokes so your flow must be doing well.

What I read is that they may do an angioplasty on a narrowed artery but not on a fully blocked one. A cardiologist could tell you whether that's correct or not. But certainly good diet, exercise and regular monitoring will be important for you.

[denistd]

Blockage on the right side is not as bad as on the left side, I had 90% blockage on the left side and 20% on the right. I had surgery on the left side. If it's the left side I would be more concerned than if it's the right side

[Rowland111]

I'm almost 82 years old with hemiplegia and 100% blocked left carotid artery.(my stroke was compliments of by-pass heart surgery 13 years ago). I take chelation pills twice daily - don't know if it's why I'm still here, but suspect if you watch your diet and exercise you'll be ok too.
Rowland