Carotid artery pain stems from three known conditions, two of which are related to cholesterol deposits. Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque blocks blood flow to the brain. Arteriosclerosis can also cause carotid artery pain when walls of the arteries thicken or harden, hindering the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain and other vital organs. Carotidynia is a common source of carotid artery pain, with no known cause. It can appear as a throbbing or dull pain that increases when palpated.

High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and a diet high in fatty foods might lead to carotid artery pain. Obesity, lack of exercise, and a family history of carotid artery disease might also contribute to the condition. Carotid artery stenosis means the arteries become blocked by cholesterol deposits, also called hardening of the arteries. If these vessels become completely blocked, a stroke could result and cause permanent brain damage within three to six hours.

Strokes might also occur if an artery ruptures or if plaque breaks loose and enters a smaller artery in the brain. Blood clots also might cause carotid artery pain. The carotid arteries transport blood to the front part of the brain, which controls personality, speech, motor skills, and sensory perception.

Arteriosclerosis is diagnosed when arterial walls lose elasticity and become thick or hardened. This disorder may stem from the same lifestyle and dietary habits as carotid artery disease, along with stress. If bodily organs are deprived of oxygen, paralysis and memory loss can follow. Symptoms of arteriosclerosis include carotid artery pain, numbness, and dizziness.

Carotidynia can provoke pain in the face, neck, ear, or head. The pain may increase when a person is swallowing or chewing food. Its cause is unknown, but the condition occurs more often in women. Carotid artery pain from this disorder might disappear on its own without treatment.

Carotid arteries are on each side of the neck. They are located by feeling for a pulse as the heart pumps blood to the brain. Carotid artery pain is commonly felt along the neck and in the face. If the pain persists, it might signal the need for anti-inflammatory medication.

Treatment generally involves medication that prevents blood from clotting too much. These drugs might be effective when less than 50 percent of an artery is blocked. When more than half of the artery is obstructed, surgery may be performed.