Final answer:
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which arteries become clogged with plaque. It can lead to carotid stenosis. Preventing atherosclerosis involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Step-by-step explanation:
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the inside of arteries become clogged with plaque, a deposit of fatty material. It can lead to carotid stenosis, which is the narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck.
Atherosclerosis can be caused by several factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.
To prevent atherosclerosis, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and managing stress.
A carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the plaque buildup from the carotid arteries. It is performed to prevent strokes in individuals with significant carotid stenosis.
After a carotid endarterectomy, it is important to follow post-surgical instructions provided by the healthcare team, such as taking prescribed medications, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.