What symptom is typically associated with a carotid artery occlusion?

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is indeed a symptom commonly associated with carotid artery occlusion. When one of the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, becomes partially or completely occluded, it can lead to temporary reduction in blood flow. This reduced blood flow can cause neurological symptoms similar to those of a stroke but are temporary and typically resolve within 24 hours. Symptoms may include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, or sudden vision changes, all of which align with what is observed in a TIA.

Uncontrolled hypertension, hypotension, and chronic vertigo may be related to vascular health or cardiovascular issues, but they are not specific indicators of carotid artery occlusion. Uncontrolled hypertension can be a risk factor for vascular diseases, hypotension deals with low blood pressure that is not directly linked to carotid occlusion, and chronic vertigo tends to involve balance issues or inner ear problems rather than specific blockage in the carotid arteries. Thus, TIAs are a more definitive and significant symptom directly associated with this condition.