Stroke from Carotid Stenosis

How is the condition diagnosed?

Carotid stenosis is diagnosed using a carotid ultrasound, also known as a duplex Doppler scan. An ultrasound uses sound waves to determine whether an artery has a blockage or reduced blood flow. Another way to diagnose carotid stenosis is by magnetic resonance angiography, a special X-ray test in which pictures are taken of the arteries in the neck. Both these tests are painless and noninvasive.

Cranial MRIs and cranial CT scans may be ordered to show the type, size, and location of the stroke.