Question 11 - Single Best Answer
An 85 year old black male presents for an annual exam. On auscultation of his heart, no abnormalities are found. However, a carotid bruit(sound indicating turbulence or loud blood flow at the carotid artery) is heard bilaterally. This is usually associated with atherosclerosis(hardening of the arteries). The remainder of the exam is normal. What is the most immediately worrisome complication associated with these findings? OK THIS IS A DIFFICULT QUESTION BUT YOU'LL BE AHEAD OF THE GAME 2ND YR IF YOU REMEMBER IT!
D) high blood pressure
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Although this is often associated with the findings, good control can be obtained with compliant patients(those who take medications as prescribed and control dietary intake). Complications of asymptomatic high blood pressure is usually manifested as a cranial bleeding episode. This occurs after many years and is not an immediate concern.