Elderly Patients with Episodic Dizziness Should Be Alert to Carotid Artery Atherosclerosis!
It is well known that dizziness in the elderly can be caused by a variety of health issues. However, when the dizziness is episodic and persistent, it may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition—such as carotid artery atherosclerosis. This case study follows a 70-year-old woman who presented with persistent dizziness and was later diagnosed with multiple chronic conditions, including carotid artery atherosclerosis.
The patient had a long history of hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Her blood pressure had previously reached 180/110 mmHg and was currently maintained around 150/90 mmHg with medication. Her fasting blood glucose level was approximately 6.5 mmol/L, and post-meal levels were relatively stable due to insulin therapy. Upon admission to Harbin Infectious Disease Hospital in November 2019, a carotid ultrasound revealed plaque formation, indicating atherosclerosis.
Initial Diagnosis and Assessment
During her first consultation, the patient reported experiencing intermittent dizziness for over a month. With a medical history including stage 3 hypertension and type 2 diabetes, she was at a higher risk for vascular complications. A carotid ultrasound confirmed the presence of atherosclerotic plaques, leading to a diagnosis of carotid artery atherosclerosis and cerebral insufficiency, along with her existing conditions.
Treatment Plan and Progress
Following the diagnosis, the patient was admitted for inpatient treatment. She was prescribed Rosuvastatin calcium tablets to reduce plaque buildup and improve arterial health. In addition, Ginkgo biloba extract was used to support microcirculation and cognitive function. Blood pressure and glucose levels were closely monitored throughout her hospital stay.
After 8 days of treatment, her dizziness significantly improved, and her vital signs stabilized, allowing her to be discharged. She continued her prescribed medication regimen at home and returned for a follow-up appointment three months later.
Positive Outcomes After Three Months
At the three-month follow-up, a repeat carotid ultrasound showed a noticeable reduction in plaque size. The patient reported fewer episodes of dizziness and improved overall well-being. Her blood pressure and blood glucose levels remained within a stable range, demonstrating the effectiveness of the treatment plan.
Why Statins Are Important in Atherosclerosis
Rosuvastatin, a potent statin, plays a crucial role in reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which contributes to plaque formation in the arteries. By lowering cholesterol levels and stabilizing existing plaques, statins help reduce the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular events in patients with carotid artery disease.
Long-Term Management and Prevention
Although the patient's condition improved significantly, atherosclerosis is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management. It is essential for patients to continue taking prescribed medications, such as statins, and adopt healthy lifestyle changes, including a low-salt, low-fat diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption.
Regular follow-up appointments, including carotid ultrasounds and lipid profile testing, are also crucial in monitoring disease progression and adjusting treatment as needed. Controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels remains a top priority in preventing further vascular damage.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease that develops over years due to endothelial damage and lipid accumulation. Early detection and treatment are essential, especially in high-risk populations such as the elderly with comorbidities like hypertension and diabetes. Managing cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and medication can significantly slow the progression of the disease.
This case highlights the importance of recognizing seemingly minor symptoms like episodic dizziness as potential indicators of serious vascular issues. Timely intervention with appropriate medications and lifestyle changes can lead to meaningful improvements in patient outcomes and quality of life.