There are many different kinds of diseases which can affect your vascular system. No matter which type of vascular disease you may be dealing with, Banner Health is here to support you in your journey to healthy living.
Commonly referred to as the hardening of the arteries, atherosclerosis can lead to other complications and artery diseases such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), carotid artery disease, coronary artery disease or aneurysms. It occurs when plaque (a mixture of fat, cholesterol, and other substances) builds up in the arteries, causing them to narrow and stiffen, reducing blood flow.
Also known as peripheral vascular disease, PAD involves the progressive thickening of an artery’s lining due to plaque buildup. This reduces blood flow to areas of the body such as the legs, stomach, kidneys and neck. Historically, PAD was thought to primarily affect men, but recent studies show post-menopausal women have a similar risk.
Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of PAD.
Carotid artery disease, or carotid stenosis, is the narrowing of the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain. Plaque buildup in these arteries can reduce or block blood flow, increasing the risk of stroke. Symptoms can include weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking or no symptoms at all.
A pulmonary embolism occurs when one of the main arteries in the lungs is blocked, often due to a blood clot from deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Symptoms include sudden shortness of breath or sharp chest pain, especially when breathing deeply.
A collection of autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma that can affect the blood vessels. Common symptoms include muscle weakness, joint pain, fatigue and skin rash. These conditions are more prevalent in women.
This group of disorders affects blood flow to the brain and includes ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA) and aneurysms. Common symptoms of cerebrovascular disease include headache, weakness or paralysis on one side, confusion, slurred speech and vision loss.
An aneurysm occurs when the wall of a blood vessel weakens, causing it to bulge outward. Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are a common type, which can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding if ruptured.
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins, typically in the legs. If the clot travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism. Symptoms may include swelling, pain, and redness in the affected area.
Each of these types of vascular diseases has its own unique set of symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. If you have questions about the signs or symptoms of vascular disease, treatments, or ways to prevent vascular disease, schedule an appointment with one of the specialists at Banner Health.
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