Vascular disease

Vascular disease is a class of diseases of the blood vessels - the arteries and veins of the circulatory system of the body. It is a common affliction, affecting millions of people worldwide. Vascular diseases are often associated with high mortality rates and reduced quality of life, making them a significant public health concern.

Types of Vascular Disease

There are several types of vascular diseases, each with its own set of causes, symptoms, and treatments. Some of the most common types include:

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD): This condition is characterized by narrowed or blocked arteries, typically in the legs, leading to reduced blood flow and symptoms such as leg pain and fatigue.

• Aneurysm: An aneurysm is a bulge or "ballooning" in the wall of an artery. It can occur in any artery, but is most common in the aorta, the main artery of the body.

• Venous thromboembolism (VTE): This includes both deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg, and pulmonary embolism (PE), a blood clot that travels to the lungs.

• Varicose veins: These are enlarged, twisted veins that are visible under the skin. They are most common in the legs and ankles.

Causes and Risk Factors

Vascular diseases can be caused by conditions that damage your blood vessels. These might include diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, inflammation, and infections. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and a lack of physical activity can also increase the risk of developing vascular disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of vascular disease often involves a physical examination, medical history, and various tests such as blood tests, ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI. Treatment depends on the specific type of vascular disease, but may include lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.

See Also

• Cardiovascular disease
• Heart disease
• Stroke