Vascular conditions affect the circulatory system and include any disease connected to the lymph vessels, veins, arteries, and blood disorders. Arteries and veins carry blood to and from the heart to the body parts. Any abnormal condition affecting the blood vessels can disrupt the flow of blood required for the proper functioning of organs.
At BKLYN Cardio, our team ensures you receive comprehensive and personalized care based on your vascular condition. We use advanced treatments, minimally invasive interventions, and lifestyle modifications to heal and restore your vascular health.
The vascular system has three primary types of blood vessels:
The lymphatic system is a separate cleaning system that rids the body of dead or damaged cells and helps protect against infections. The vessels in the lymphatic system pick up fluid from tissues and drain it into the veins.
Vascular conditions refer to a range of problems that impact blood flow in the vascular system or the arteries, veins, and vessels carrying lymphatic fluid.
There is no known cause of some vascular problems. For others, causes may include:
Any medical condition affecting your blood vessel network is identified as a vascular condition.
An aneurysm is a vascular condition in which the wall of a blood vessel abnormally bulges or widens. It can develop in any blood vessel but is typically seen in an artery. Aneurysms can affect the brain, aorta (the largest artery in the body), neck, intestines, kidney, spleen, and legs.
Types of aneurysm include:
Atherosclerosis is a vascular condition caused by the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances on the walls of the blood vessels. It occurs when the arteries become thick and stiff, restricting blood flow to organs and tissues.
In carotid artery disease, fatty deposits block the blood vessels that deliver blood to the brain. The condition develops slowly, and typically, its first sign is a stroke - a medical emergency in which the brain loses its blood supply.
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more deep veins. Deep veins are located deep inside your body, unlike superficial veins that are close to the surface. This condition usually affects the legs, and symptoms may include leg pain or swelling.
It can turn severe when the blood clot gets stuck in the lungs after breaking away. This vascular condition is then called pulmonary embolism, in which the blood clot blocks blood flow to an artery in the lung.
Endocarditis is inflammation of the inner lining of your heart's chambers and valves. It begins when germs enter the bloodstream and then travel to the heart. Symptoms of this condition can vary from person to person and depend on the type of germs causing the infection. Treatments for endocarditis include medications and surgery.
Hyperlipidemia, or high blood cholesterol, indicates the presence of excess lipids or fats in the blood. This vascular condition increases the risk of heart attack and stroke because the blood cannot flow through the arteries easily. Exercise, a healthy diet, and medication are the common ways to treat hyperlipidemia.
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a common vascular condition in which the pressure in your blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). Most people with hypertension do not feel any symptoms. However, very high blood pressure can cause headaches, blurred vision, and chest pain.
Risk factors of high blood pressure include:
In peripheral artery disease, the arteries in the arms or legs get narrow due to fatty deposits, reducing blood flow to the limbs. Common symptoms are muscle pain, cramping, numbness, and a change in skin color. It can be treated with lifestyle modifications, such as exercising, eating a heart-healthy diet, and not smoking or drinking.
Renal artery stenosis is the narrowing of renal arteries, preventing enough oxygen-rich blood from reaching the kidneys. Adequate blood flow is essential for the kidneys to filter waste products and remove excess fluids. Reduced blood flow may injure kidney tissue and increase blood pressure in the body.
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a group of vascular conditions in which blood vessels or nerves are compressed in the area between the neck and shoulder. It can cause shoulder and neck pain and numbness in your fingers. Treatment for this condition involves physical therapy and pain relief. Surgery may be needed for severe cases.
When vein walls are damaged, the circulatory system is hindered, allowing blood to collect and flow backward when the muscles relax. It results in high pressure on vein walls, causing stretching and twisting of the veins, swelling, valve dysfunction, sluggish blood circulation, and the potential for blood clot formation. This can lead to various venous diseases, such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis.
The lymphatic system comprises a network of organs, vessels, and tissues that move lymphatic fluid (a colorless, watery fluid) back into the circulatory system. Some common lymphatic disorders are swollen lymph nodes, fluid accumulation due to blockage, and inflammation of the lymph vessels.
Cerebrovascular disease refers to a group of vascular conditions that impact the blood vessels in the brain. It may cause a reduction in blood flow or bleeding in a part of the brain. Cerebrovascular disease can affect both arteries and veins.
Although risk factors like genetics and age cannot be controlled, lifestyle modifications can reduce your risk of developing vascular disease significantly.
Diagnosing vascular disease typically involves a physical examination. Your cardiologist may also order additional diagnostic tests based on findings and to pinpoint the type of vascular condition you may have. Additional tests may include:
Such comprehensive diagnostic assessments help plan effective treatment options for your condition.
Depending on the specific condition and type, there is a wide range of treatments available for vascular diseases. The most common treatments include eating healthier and increasing regular exercise.
You may also need to take specific vascular medication depending on the condition. Treatment for these conditions may also involve minimally invasive procedures, such as angioplasty, peripheral vascular interventions, stent placement, or surgery in severe cases.
Vascular conditions can be a lifelong issue. Therefore, lifestyle changes are essential for maintaining good vascular health.
Your vascular conditions will require ongoing treatment and care. At BKLYN Cardio, we ensure you get comprehensive and advanced treatment designed specifically for your conditions.
To schedule an initial appointment with our interventional cardiologist, Dr. Matthew Jones, please call 718-237-4067 or request one online. You can also visit our practice in Brooklyn, NY.
