Mumbai, India – Veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, 75, recently underwent preventative procedures after a routine full-body health check-up revealed a significant and asymptomatic blockage in both his carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain. The arteries were found to be over 75% blocked, a condition he described as “potentially dangerous” if ignored. Roshan is now recovering at home and has issued a strong appeal to individuals aged 45 and above to prioritize regular health screenings, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked neck arteries.
A Wake-Up Call: 75% Blockage Without Symptoms
Rakesh Roshan shared his eye-opening experience on social media, detailing how the severe blockage was discovered purely by chance. During a routine full-body check-up, the doctor conducting a sonography for his heart suggested an additional scan for his neck. This incidental scan revealed that both his carotid arteries were significantly blocked, despite him experiencing no symptoms whatsoever.
“This week has been truly eye-opening,” Roshan wrote, emphasizing the silent nature of the threat. He promptly admitted himself to the hospital for preventative procedures and is now back home, fully recovered, and hopes to resume his workouts soon.
The Silent Danger of Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid arteries are two major blood vessels located on each side of the neck that are crucial for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the brain, face, and neck. Over time, fatty deposits known as plaque can build up inside these arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. This plaque buildup can narrow the arteries, restricting blood flow and significantly increasing the risk of a stroke.
What makes Rakesh Roshan’s case particularly noteworthy is the absence of symptoms. Many individuals with significant carotid artery blockages may experience no warning signs until a serious event like a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) occurs.
Roshan’s Urgent Advice: Prioritize Neck Scans Post-45
Drawing from his personal ordeal, Rakesh Roshan strongly advises everyone over the age of 45 to undergo regular preventive health scans. He specifically highlighted the importance of a heart CT scan and, critically, a carotid brain artery sonography, which he noted is “often ignored completely.”
“Prevention is always better than cure,” Roshan stated, urging proactive health management. His son, Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan, amplified his father’s message by sharing the post, further raising awareness about this vital health concern.
Understanding Carotid Artery Sonography
A carotid artery sonography, also known as a carotid ultrasound, is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the carotid arteries in the neck. This painless procedure allows doctors to detect plaque buildup, narrowing of the arteries (carotid artery stenosis), or other abnormalities that could lead to serious conditions like stroke.
Key Benefits of Carotid Ultrasound:
- Early Detection: It identifies potential problems before they lead to a stroke.
- Non-Invasive and Safe: The test does not involve radiation, needles, or surgery, making it a safe and quick option.
- Risk Assessment: It helps in assessing stroke risk, particularly for individuals with risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or a family history of stroke or heart disease.
- Guides Treatment: The results guide healthcare professionals in determining the best treatment plan, which might include lifestyle changes, medications, or even surgery.
Beyond Detection: A Call for Proactive Health
Rakesh Roshan’s experience serves as a powerful reminder that serious health issues can lurk silently, even in seemingly healthy individuals. His emphasis on routine check-ups and specific screenings for the neck underscores the need for a holistic approach to preventive healthcare, especially as one ages.
While general health check-ups are common, specific attention to the carotid arteries can be life-saving, preventing debilitating conditions like stroke that often strike without prior warning.
