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When your heart beats, it pumps blood through a network of blood vessels referred to as your vascular system. Like your heart, your vascular system is vulnerable to many of the same conditions that affect your heart. At Heart & Vascular Institute in Wayne, Dearborn, Detroit, Allen Park, and Southfield, Michigan, the award-winning cardiology team specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease. To schedule a consultation, call the office most convenient to you or book an appointment using the online tool.
Vascular Disease Q & A
What is vascular disease?
Vascular disease refers to various conditions that affect the blood vessels that make up your vascular system. This includes:
Arteries
Your arteries are the blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your organs and body parts.
Veins
Your veins are responsible for carrying the oxygen-deprived blood back to your heart and lungs for re-oxygenation and recirculation.
Capillaries
The capillaries are the tiny blood vessels that connect your arteries and veins. They assist in the exchange of materials between your blood and body.
What are types of vascular disease?
Vascular diseases include any conditions that affect your network of blood vessels. Types of vascular disease include:
Peripheral artery disease
Peripheral artery disease refers to a narrowing of your peripheral arteries due to a buildup of plaque. The narrowing may affect the supply of oxygen-rich blood to your head, stomach, lungs, arms, or legs. However, peripheral artery disease most often affects the arteries in the legs.
Venous thromboembolism (VTE)
VTE refers to a blood clot in your vein. This includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism.
Aneurysm
Weakness or bulging in the wall of an artery is called an aneurysm. You can develop an aneurysm in any blood vessel, but they most commonly affect the aorta, which is the main artery in your heart.
Varicose veins, coronary artery disease, and chronic venous insufficiency are also types of vascular disease.
How is vascular disease diagnosed?
The experienced team of cardiologists at Heart & Vascular Institute conducts comprehensive evaluations to diagnose vascular disease. During your exam, your cardiologist reviews your symptoms and your medical and family history, and performs a physical.
Based on the information gathered during your exam, your cardiologist determines the type of diagnostic testing you need to confirm or rule out a suspected vascular disease, which may include lab work, vascular ultrasound, peripheral angiogram, or an aorta scan.
How is vascular disease treated?
Your cardiologist develops personalized treatment plans to manage your vascular disease based on your diagnosis, symptoms, medical history, and overall health. Your treatment plan may include a combination of:
- Lifestyle modifications
- Disease-specific medications
- Non-surgical procedures (angioplasty)
- Surgery
The team reviews the details of your treatment plan with you and schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your condition and adjust your plan as needed.
Vascular disease affects millions of Americans. To learn more, contact Heart & Vascular Institute by phone or online today.