Symptoms of Carotid Stenosis

Carotid stenosis may not cause any symptoms. When carotid stenosis causes a TIA or stroke, symptoms may include:

  • Weakness or paralysis of an arm and/or leg on one side of the body
  • Loss of coordination or movement
  • Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
  • Loss of sensation in the face, an arm, or a leg
  • Problems with speech or vision

People experiencing these symptoms should seek care immediately by calling 911.

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital uses the following tests to diagnose carotid stenosis:

  • Carotid ultrasound using a duplex scan, a noninvasive way to assess blood flow in the carotid arteries
  • Magnetic resonance imaging or magnetic resonance angiography
  • Computed tomography scan
  • Angiography