Vascular Disease Diagnosis and Treatment

How is vascular disease diagnosed?

Diagnosing vascular disease requires a variety of tests to assess your condition and determine the best treatment plan. Depending on your symptoms, risk factors and medical history, your doctor will recommend the most appropriate tests. Common tests used to diagnose vascular disease include:

• Physical exam – Your doctor will check for signs like swelling, changes in skin color or weak pulses.
• Blood tests – These help assess cholesterol levels, blood sugar and other factors that may indicate vascular issues.
• Ultrasound – This imaging test uses sound waves to check blood flow and detect blockages.
• CT or CAT scan – A detailed imaging test that can identify aneurysms, blockages or other abnormalities.
• Stress test – This test monitors your heart while you exercise to see how well it functions under stress.
• Ankle-brachial index (ABI) – This test compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm to detect peripheral artery disease (PAD). 

How is vascular disease treated?

Vascular disease treatment depends on the severity of your condition. Common treatments include lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes, surgical procedures.

Lifestyle changes to manage vascular disease 

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors contributing to vascular disease. These may include: 

• Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Quitting smoking
• Losing weight and following a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly

Making these changes can improve your overall vascular health and reduce the risk of complications. 

Medication for vascular disease 

Various medications can help manage or slow the progression of vascular disease. Common medications include: 

• Cholesterol-lowering medications – Reduce the buildup of plaque in the arteries. 
• High blood pressure medications – Help control blood pressure levels. 
• Beta-blockers – Slow the heart rate and reduce blood pressure. 
• Diuretics – Help eliminate excess fluid, reducing blood pressure. 
• Anti-platelet or anti-clotting medications (aspirin) – Prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke. 

Always consult your doctor before starting or changing any medication. 

Surgical procedures for severe vascular disease

In cases where vascular disease causes severe blockages or symptoms, surgery or other procedures may be necessary. Common procedures include:

• Angioplasty – A balloon on a catheter is used to open blocked arteries. A stent is often placed to keep the artery open.
• Endarterectomy – Surgical removal of fatty deposits inside an artery.
• Bypass surgery – A new route is created using a blood vessel from your body or a synthetic tube to bypass the blocked artery.
• Thrombolytic therapy – A clot-dissolving drug is inserted into the artery to break up blockages. 

For patients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), which is a dangerous bulging of the aorta, repair is critical. Treatment options include: 

• Surgery – To repair or replace the affected part of the aorta. 
• Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) – A minimally invasive option using a stent graft. 
• Laparoscopic surgery – A less invasive technique using small incisions. 

Your doctor will recommend the best treatment based on your aneurysm type and overall health.

Why choose Banner Health for vascular disease treatment?

At Banner Health, we provide the latest in vascular disease treatments to help you manage your condition effectively. Our team of specialists uses advanced techniques to ensure you get the best care possible, so you can return to your life quickly and safely. Schedule an appointment with a vascular disease specialist today to learn about your treatment options.