Symptoms. In its early stages, carotid artery disease often doesn't produce any signs or symptoms. The condition may go unnoticed until it's serious enough to deprive your brain of blood, causing a stroke or TIA. Signs and symptoms of a stroke or TIA include: 1  Sudden numbness or weakness in the face or limbs, often on only one side of the body.n its early stages, carotid artery disease often doesn't produce any signs or symptoms. The condition may go unnoticed until it's serious enough to deprive your brain of blood, causing a stroke or TIA.