If you’ve been told you need a carotid Doppler ultrasound in New York City, you may be wondering what it is and why it’s important. This non-invasive imaging test plays a critical role in assessing the health of your arteries and preventing serious conditions like stroke. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about carotid Doppler testing—what it is, how it works, when you might need it, and what to expect, especially if you're experiencing headaches or dizziness in Manhattan or the greater NYC area.

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What Is a Carotid Doppler?

A carotid Doppler ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test that uses sound waves to evaluate blood flow through the carotid arteries—the major arteries in your neck that deliver blood from your heart to your brain.

This test helps detect:

• Narrowing (stenosis) of the carotid arteries

• Blockages or clots

• Plaque buildup (atherosclerosis)

• Risk of stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)

Why Is a Carotid Doppler Important?

The carotid arteries are essential for brain function. If these arteries become narrowed or blocked, it can significantly increase your risk of stroke—a leading cause of death and long-term disability.

Doctors often order a carotid Doppler to:

• Investigate symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, loss of balance, or vision changes

• Evaluate bruits (abnormal sounds in the neck arteries)

• Monitor patients with a history of stroke or TIA

• Screen for carotid artery disease in patients with risk factors like high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, or high cholesterol

Dizziness, Headaches, and Vascular Health: What You Should Know

In many cases, when patients come in for headaches, they also report other symptoms such as losing balance or dizziness. These symptoms may seem unrelated, but they often point to underlying cardiovascular conditions.

By definition, dizziness is considered a vascular or cardiovascular condition, and should not be ignored.

At 14 Street Medical Arts, we follow the standard of care and conduct a vascular workup when such complaints are present. This typically includes ordering and performing a carotid Doppler, a vascular ultrasound that evaluates blood flow through the carotid artery—the main artery supplying blood and oxygen to the brain.

At 14 Street Medical Arts, conveniently located in Manhattan, NYC, you don’t have to wait for insurance authorizations. You can choose a self-pay option, with the test available for just $200. This allows for fast, accessible care without delays, helping you take control of your health sooner—especially if you're experiencing symptoms in the New York area.

What to Expect During the Test

A carotid Doppler is a quick, painless, and safe procedure. Here's what happens during the exam:

1. You will lie down on an exam table.

2. A technician applies a warm gel to your neck.

3. A handheld device called a transducer is moved over your skin.

4. The device emits sound waves and captures images of the blood flow in your carotid arteries.

The entire process takes approximately 15 minutes, and there are no needles, radiation, or downtime involved.

Who Should Get a Carotid Doppler?

You may benefit from this test if you:

• Have had a stroke or TIA

• Experience symptoms like sudden weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, or dizziness

• Have a family history of cardiovascular disease

• Are over 60 with multiple risk factors

• Are preparing for certain surgeries where vascular health must be evaluated

Benefits of Early Detection

Detecting carotid artery disease early through Doppler ultrasound allows for preventive treatment, such as:

• Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, quitting smoking)

• Medications to lower cholesterol or blood pressure

• Surgical interventions (like carotid endarterectomy or stenting) in severe cases

Early intervention can reduce the risk of stroke and improve long-term outcomes.

Schedule Your Carotid Doppler in Manhattan Today

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms like dizziness, headaches, or balance problems, or if you have risk factors for stroke, a carotid Doppler ultrasound could be a life-saving test.

At 14 Street Medical Arts, centrally located in New York City, we offer same-day vascular testing with no wait for insurance approvals—and affordable self-pay options starting at just $200.

Call us at 212-481-3333 or
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