9 Warning Signs of Blocked Carotid Arteries You Should Never Ignore (Especially #5)

While dizziness has many possible causes, new or worsening episodes in older adults—especially when combined with other signs—warrant careful evaluation. Persistent or recurrent balance issues should never be automatically blamed on aging or inner-ear problems.

Warning Sign 6: A Pulsing or Whooshing Sound in One Ear

Some people begin hearing a rhythmic whooshing, pulsing, or swishing noise in one ear that matches their heartbeat. This sound (called a bruit) can become more noticeable when lying down or in quiet environments.

The noise is created by turbulent blood flowing through a narrowed section of the artery. While only a doctor can confirm it with a stethoscope, if you notice this pattern yourself, mention it during your next medical visit.

Warning Sign 7: Sudden Memory or Concentration Difficulty

Rapid-onset confusion, trouble remembering recent events, or unusual difficulty concentrating can sometimes relate to reduced blood supply to the brain.

Because the brain consumes a large amount of oxygen, even brief shortages can affect cognitive function first. Many people with carotid narrowing perform worse on memory and thinking tests compared with those who have clear vessels.

Warning Sign 8: Brief Facial Drooping

A sudden droop on one side of the face, an uneven smile, or one eyelid appearing lower than the other is a classic warning. This is part of the widely taught FAST criteria (Face, Arms, Speech, Time).

Even when the drooping resolves quickly, it represents a medical urgency that should never be ignored.

Warning Sign 9: Repeated Mini-Episodes That Resolve

Perhaps the most important overall pattern is having multiple brief episodes of any of the above symptoms that come and go. Each episode that resolves on its own is frequently called a “warning stroke” or TIA.

Research shows that people who experience a TIA have a significantly elevated risk of full stroke in the following days and weeks. The more episodes, the more important it becomes to investigate promptly.