General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
In France call 15 or 112 immediately for a sudden sign: weakness or numbness of an arm, leg or face; a distorted face; trouble speaking, understanding, reading or writing; loss of balance; a severe unusual headache; loss of sight in one eye or double vision. Call even if the sign disappears; use 114 if you cannot make a voice call.
An already prescribed carotid Doppler ultrasound examines the major arteries in the neck that carry blood to the brain. It may help identify narrowing or follow an arterial condition.
The probe uses ultrasound to show the appearance of the vessels; the Doppler function assesses blood flow. The doctor interprets any plaque or narrowing in the context of your health.
The doctor applies gel and moves the probe over the neck. Both sides are examined even if the problem is known on only one side. This test does not replace urgent brain imaging arranged for signs of stroke.
Bring the referral, doctor’s letter, current medicines and any previous vascular results or operation reports. Ameli states that examination of the neck arteries needs no prior preparation.
The doctor explains the images and sends a report to the prescriber. Ask what the findings mean for follow-up and whether other tests are useful; do not choose a treatment yourself from an image.
Sources
Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.