Test #5: Carotid Artery Ultrasound Without Symptoms
Carotid artery ultrasounds look for narrowing in the blood vessels supplying the brain.
While the idea seems logical, routine screening in people without symptoms remains controversial.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends against routine screening in asymptomatic adults because:
- Many blockages never cause problems
- Follow-up procedures carry risks
- Treatment complications may outweigh potential benefits
Instead, experts often emphasize controlling major stroke risk factors:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Atrial fibrillation
Five Questions To Ask Before Any Screening Test
Experts suggest bringing these questions to every medical appointment:
- What is the false-positive rate for people my age?
- If the test finds something, what are the realistic treatment options?
- What risks come with those treatments?
- Can the condition be safely monitored instead?
- Are there non-invasive alternatives?
The Bigger Picture
The goal of healthcare after age 65 is not simply to find more abnormalities.
The goal is to preserve quality of life, independence, mobility, and well-being.
For some people, additional screening remains beneficial. For others, watchful waiting, lifestyle improvements, and symptom-based evaluation may offer greater advantages.
The most important step is having informed conversations with your healthcare provider so decisions are personalized rather than automatic.
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