Final answer:
Carotid bruits are abnormal sounds indicating turbulent blood flow through the carotid arteries in the neck. They are often caused by atherosclerosis, which can increase the risk of stroke. Further medical evaluation and management are necessary to reduce the risk of complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carotid bruits are abnormal sounds that can be heard with a stethoscope when there is turbulent blood flow through the carotid arteries in the neck. They are usually caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaques in the arterial walls. Carotid bruits can be an indicator of carotid artery disease, which can increase the risk of stroke.
When carotid bruits are detected, further medical evaluation is typically done to assess the severity of the disease and determine the appropriate treatment course. This may involve imaging tests such as carotid ultrasound or angiography to visualize the extent of the blockage or narrowing in the arteries.
It's important to note that the presence of carotid bruits does not always mean that the person will experience a stroke, but it is considered a significant risk factor. Therefore, appropriate medical management and lifestyle modifications, such as medication, diet, exercise, and smoking cessation, may be recommended to reduce the risk of complications.