Carotid arteries are two blood vessels located on both sides of your neck that supply blood to the brain. 

When fatty deposits build up in the carotid wall, they decrease blood supply to your brain. High cholesterol, and blood pressure, smoking, age and obesity are all risk factors for atherosclerosis, the formation of plaques in the blood vessels.

Usually, when blood supply is restricted with a 70% blockage or above, angioplasty is needed.