What has that to do with anything?

I'm sorry to hear that you're having some concerning health symptoms. I think a second opinion is worthwhile. Is there atherosclerosis AND an aneurysm going on, because an aneurysm is not a blockage, but a thinning and ballooning of the arterial wall. I can see why this perhaps would be a high risk region for surgical treatment. Sometimes surgery can be riskier than the medical condition. Carotid atherosclerosis (blockage) is usually not treated surgically until there is more than a 70% blockage because that's where the benefits clearly outweigh the risks of the procedure,

That said, having an aneurysm as well is surely a concern. The best treatment if surgery is not an option is agressive management of blood pressure, regular exercise, and a very healthy diet. I definitely recommend you follow-up with your primary care doctor who will probably do a better job of "putting the pieces" together for a big picture understanding of things. And if you feel you want to see another surgeon also, don't let your sister dissuade you.

Best of luck!