The carotid artery is a common vessel for plaque. The effect of carotid arteries on the body varies depending on the severity of plaque formation. Mild plaques usually have little effect on the blood supply to the brain and the patient is asymptomatic, while severe plaques can cause blockage of the blood vessels, preventing blood flow through the internal carotid artery from reaching the brain and affecting the brain’s blood supply. In severe cases, the plaque can rupture and bleed off, and flow to the brain, causing acute cerebral infarction, which can be disabling and fatal in severe cases.