Why do I Have Periodic Pain left side of neck next to adams apple where carotid sits

[Andybelizzo]

Sometimes as of recently, I will have pain on the left side of my adams apple where the carotid sits.  I don't know my cholesterol levels, I am a 26 year old male, fit, I exercise vigorously 3 times per week.  my diet isn't squeaky clean but not terrible.  I do put grass fed butter into my coffee and I cook with a lot of it as well.  My blood pressure was just check today ( and im having the pain today after I worked out) it was 132/80.  I don't smoke, I drink red wine sometimes.  im afraid its my artery.