Vascular Disease

Vascular disease refers to conditions that affect the blood vessels, typically caused by the buildup of plaque or fatty deposits within the arteries, which can lead to narrowed or blocked blood flow. These conditions can impact various areas of the body and may result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, or even tissue damage depending on the affected region. Common types of vascular disease include peripheral arterial disease (PAD), carotid artery disease, aortic aneurysms, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Causes and Risk Factors:

Vascular disease is most commonly caused by **atherosclerosis**, a condition where plaque accumulates inside the arteries, restricting blood flow. Key risk factors include:
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Family history
- Age

Symptoms:

Depending on the type of vascular disease, symptoms may vary:
- Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Often affects the legs, causing symptoms like intermittent claudication (pain while walking), leg cramps, numbness, and slow-healing wounds, especially in the feet.
- Carotid Artery Disease: Narrowing of the arteries in the neck, leading to symptoms such as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or even strokes, with sudden weakness, numbness, or speech difficulties.
- Aortic Aneurysm: Usually asymptomatic, but may cause abdominal pain or a pulsating sensation if it ruptures or grows.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Typically presents with swelling, pain, and redness in the leg due to blood clots.

Diagnosis:

Early detection is critical in managing vascular disease. Our comprehensive diagnostic services include:
- Physical Examination: Checking for abnormal pulses, skin temperature, and edema (swelling).
- Doppler Ultrasound: A non-invasive test to assess blood flow in arteries and veins.
- Angiography: Using dye and X-ray to visualize blockages in the blood vessels.
- CT Scan or MRI: Detailed imaging to evaluate the structure of blood vessels and detect conditions like aneurysms.

Treatment Options:

Our treatment approach is designed to reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall vascular health:
- Lifestyle Modifications: We focus on smoking cessation, weight management, exercise, and a healthy diet to reduce risk factors.
- Medications: Statins to lower cholesterol, blood pressure medications, and antiplatelet medications to prevent blood clots.
- Vascular Interventions: For more advanced cases, we offer minimally invasive procedures such as:
- Angioplasty: A balloon catheter to open blocked arteries.
- Stent Placement: A mesh tube that keeps arteries open.
- Aneurysm Repair: Surgical or endovascular repair of weakened blood vessels.

Our team of expert cardiologists is dedicated to diagnosing and treating vascular disease early, helping you manage your condition and improve your overall health. If you have risk factors or symptoms of vascular disease, don’t wait—contact us to schedule a consultation.