Every year, thousands of Americans experience a stroke — a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain that can lead to lasting neurological damage. But what many people don’t realize is that most strokes don’t happen without warning. Subtle changes in blood vessels, circulation, and brain health often develop years beforehand. Through advanced imaging, those warning signs can be detected early, helping patients take preventive steps long before a stroke occurs.

At GLMI, we use state-of-the-art imaging technology to help patients across Buffalo, Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and Cambria assess and manage their stroke risk. From vascular ultrasound and low-dose CT scans to nuclear medicine studies, our diagnostic imaging services provide critical insights into circulatory and brain health — before symptoms arise.

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Understanding Stroke Risk Factors

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. The most common type, an ischemic stroke, happens when a blood clot or plaque buildup blocks an artery leading to the brain. Identifying vascular changes before a blockage occurs is key to prevention.

Common risk factors include:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries)
• High cholesterol levels
• Diabetes or metabolic syndrome
• Smoking or heavy alcohol use
• Family history of heart attack or stroke
• Previous transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke)

Imaging helps physicians visualize how these conditions are affecting blood vessels — especially in the neck and brain — and determine whether early intervention is needed.

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The Role of Imaging in Detecting Stroke Risk

While physical exams and blood tests provide important information, only imaging can reveal what’s actually happening inside your arteries and brain. At GLMI, our advanced imaging systems allow for early identification of vascular narrowing, reduced blood flow, and other subtle changes that increase stroke risk.

1. Carotid Ultrasound

One of the most valuable tools in stroke prevention is the carotid ultrasound. This non-invasive test uses sound waves to create real-time images of the carotid arteries in your neck — the main vessels that carry blood from the heart to the brain. It can detect plaque buildup, narrowing (stenosis), and abnormal blood flow patterns that increase the likelihood of stroke.

Carotid ultrasound is painless, safe, and typically takes less than 30 minutes. It’s often recommended for patients with risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, or a family history of vascular disease.

2. Low-Dose CT Angiography

A low-dose CT angiogram provides detailed, three-dimensional images of blood vessels in the head and neck. It allows radiologists to see even small areas of plaque buildup or arterial narrowing that could lead to stroke. Because it uses advanced low-dose technology, patients receive minimal radiation exposure while benefiting from highly precise imaging.

This test is particularly valuable for detecting hidden atherosclerosis in patients who may not yet have symptoms — providing a clear picture of vascular health and guiding early preventive measures.

3. MRI and PET/CT Scans

For patients with known vascular issues or neurological symptoms, PET/CT and MRI scans can assess both structure and function within the brain. These imaging tools can reveal areas of reduced blood flow, past mini-strokes (TIAs), or early brain tissue changes linked to chronic poor circulation.

Combining brain imaging with vascular assessment provides the most comprehensive view of a patient’s overall stroke risk.

4. Nuclear Medicine Imaging

Nuclear medicine studies use small, safe amounts of radiopharmaceutical materials to evaluate blood flow to the brain and detect perfusion abnormalities. These tests can identify reduced circulation or areas of the brain that are at risk due to vascular compromise — often before clinical symptoms appear.

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Who Should Consider Preventive Stroke Imaging?

Stroke doesn’t discriminate — it can affect anyone, regardless of age. However, certain individuals benefit greatly from early imaging to assess vascular and brain health. You may be a good candidate for preventive imaging if you:

• Have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
• Smoke or have a history of smoking
• Experience dizziness, headaches, or vision changes
• Have a family history of stroke or heart disease
• Are over age 55 or postmenopausal
• Have previously experienced a TIA (mini-stroke)

Even if you feel healthy, imaging can uncover hidden risks that allow you and your doctor to take preventive steps early.

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How Early Detection Prevents Stroke

Detecting stroke risk factors before symptoms occur can prevent life-threatening events. Imaging plays a crucial role in:

• Identifying plaque buildup: Imaging reveals areas where arteries are narrowing or hardening, long before a complete blockage occurs.
• Monitoring blood flow: Ultrasound and CT scans track how efficiently blood reaches the brain.
• Guiding treatment: Imaging results help physicians determine whether lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures are needed to restore circulation.
• Evaluating previous damage: Brain imaging can show small, silent strokes that may have gone unnoticed but increase future risk.

With early, accurate information, patients can make meaningful changes — controlling blood pressure, improving diet, quitting smoking, and staying physically active — to reduce their chances of a future stroke.

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How GLMI Supports Preventive Vascular Health

At GLMI, we’re committed to helping Western New York patients protect their brain and circulatory health through advanced, compassionate imaging. Our board-certified radiologists and technologists use cutting-edge technology to provide precise, reliable results that empower both patients and physicians to make informed decisions.

Whether you’re undergoing a carotid ultrasound, low-dose CT angiogram, or nuclear medicine study, our team ensures every scan is performed with care, accuracy, and patient comfort in mind. With locations in Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and Cambria, GLMI makes it easy to access preventive imaging close to home.

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Take Control of Your Stroke Risk

Stroke prevention starts with awareness — and imaging makes that awareness possible. By identifying hidden vascular changes early, you can take control of your health, reduce risk, and protect your brain for the future.

Contact GLMI today to schedule your stroke risk imaging or learn more about our comprehensive diagnostic services available throughout Western New York.

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Medical Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider about your specific symptoms and treatment options.