Long term effect from radiation? I probably have it! I just got results of a CT of my neck and discovered I have "atheriosclerotic calcification at the origin of the right external carotid artery resulting in a 40% diameter stenosis." It looks like I will be adding another specialist to my doctor arsenal, hopefully one without "surgeon" at the end of his or her title. That does seem doubtful since it looks like I may need to see a cardiovascular or vascular surgeon.

Any long term survivors with this malady? I will stay in touch as I travel this path.

Hi Zenda, this is unfortunately quite common, even in those of us lucky enough not to have had radiation. Usually no treatment is required unless the blockage is about 80%.
Tammy

Hi Zenda,

I had my left carotid artery removed last month due to cancer involvement, reirridation. Before the removal, I had an Angiogram on both arteries, CT scan and probably ultrasound Doppler, the works, and a temporary balloon occlusion test to see if I could survive with one artery blocked, in my case to be resected, and passed the test. I don't know if any blockage was found during these tests, and plan on getting written copies of the them. I have the CD, and can't make heads or tails of it. The biopsy of the left carotid shows calcification. Prior PET/CT scans a year ago, showed slight arteriosloris in the arteries to the heart. I guess other things can contribute like smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, diet, and as finding out, radiation.

I plan on seeing a cardiovascular doctor too, and hope to be monitored, with only one carotid arterty left. Maybe I'll go to the hospital that did my testing that has a world renowned neuroscience program. I also read chiropractor manipulation can cause problems with stenosis, like stroke, and believe massage or any other manipulation also. No one other than my ENT, medical team, is touching my neck lol.

Good luck with everything.

Hi Zenda,

I am curious what type of doctor you see and what they even suggest. I'm suffering from this head to toe. I was told nothing can be done by my cardiologist. It's more veins for me and not arteries.

No big deal. I will check with my PCP on my next visit, but it was a relief to hear that three of my cancer team doctors are not concerned with my 40% blockage, since there are no problems in my other carotid arteries. As Tammy stated, "Usually no treatment is required unless the blockage is about 80%." I have my cholesterol and triglycerides checked and have never had out of range readings, and my RO thought that the 2005 XRT "may be" the cause for this stenosis. No specialist required.

Paul, I think it is wise on your part to see a cardiovascular specialist since you are now down one carotid artery and do have arteriosclerosis elsewhere.

Yeah... That's my mother in law at this point she is completely blocked on one side, and 80% on the other... We're trying to get through my father in-laws esophageal cancer and then tackle that puppy... I have been telling my husband and sister in law over a year now that they HAVE to operate on her as she has had numerous mini strokes and has hypoxic demential. They are all in denial "but if something happens when she is on the table we will never forgive ourselves.." Are you frikkin kidding me...? So what we wait until she strokes out and dies or worse ends up in a nursing home like my dad...(wouldn't wish that nightmare on anyone!!! ) I keep telling them - inaction is a choice and it is an action of itself.
Zenda you're okay as long as your other carotid is clear. It's when you start having more issues (memory) etc... That you need to seek treatment before the damage becomes permanent and you have continual digression. Hugs

It is tragic. So much for Us, and those who love and care for us to have to endure.
I am so sorry ZeldaT, I hope things turn out good for you. And Paul, Uptown, Cheryld and Tamvomk. I hope you guys are hanging tuff, like I know that you are.
I am getting a check on my artery status ASAP!
All the best, Shawn.