Carotid and neck artery ultrasound
carotid ultrasound · carotid Doppler · neck artery ultrasound · carotid duplex scan
The doctor uses ultrasound to look at the neck arteries that carry blood to the brain. It shows plaques, narrowing, and how blood flows.
For dizziness, headaches, ringing in the ears, after a stroke, or with high cholesterol and blood pressure.
⏱ Duration: usually 20 to 40 minutes; the report is ready right away
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Prep. Usually none. You can eat and drink.
- Neck. Take off necklaces and earrings. No high collars.
- Morning. On the day of the test, better to skip extra coffee and smoking. They can affect blood vessels.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past vessel ultrasounds
- A list of your medicines
How it goes
- You lie on your back with your head turned a little to one side
- Gel is put on your neck
- The doctor moves the probe along both sides of your neck
- Sometimes the vessels behind the ear and above the collarbone are checked
- The doctor measures blood flow and wall thickness
What you'll feel
- Cool gel and light pressure on your neck
- You may hear the sound of blood flow. That is normal
Afterwards
- You can go back to your usual day right away
- The report is usually ready right away
- If a plaque is found, the doctor will decide on treatment and when to recheck
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Sudden weakness in an arm or leg, a drooping face, or trouble speaking: call emergency services right away
Common questions
Can the brain's blood vessels be seen?
The neck is seen well. Vessels inside the skull are checked with a separate test, transcranial Doppler.
Is a plaque dangerous?
It depends on its size and type. Your doctor will assess it and decide if treatment is needed.