Your circulatory system is responsible for transporting blood throughout your body, but every once in a while something can go wrong. Vascular disease refers to disorders that happen in the body’s arteries, veins, and capillaries. Some of these issues, including varicose veins and spider veins, are relatively minor problems that can be addressed quickly. However, there are many other issues that are not quite as easy to fix. Read on for more information on some of the more common forms of vascular disease.
What common types of vascular disease should Illinois residents know about?
A common type of vascular disease that many Americans suffer from today is atherosclerosis. This disease occurs due to a build-up of plaque inside the arteries. This plaque, a substance made of calcium, cholesterol, and fat, is very sticky and can gradually narrow the arteries. Once narrowed, the arteries become less able to transport blood to the body. Different conditions can result from atherosclerosis depending on which arteries are affected. For example, if plaque buildup prevents blood from returning to the heart, coronary artery disease can result. Blockage in the arteries leading to the brain may result in carotid artery disease, while blockage in vessels in the arms, legs, and pelvis can cause peripheral arterial disease. Each type of atherosclerosis has its own risks and may increase the sufferer’s chances of a heart attack or stroke.
Blood clots are another common type of vascular disease. In some situations, such as if you injure yourself, your blood’s ability to clot can be beneficial. In other situations, however, these clots can be inconvenient or even dangerous. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition in which blood clots form in veins deep inside the body. Unlike clots that occur in vessels near the skin’s surface, these clots have the potential to break off and travel through the blood stream. Should this traveling clot reach the lungs, a life-threatening pulmonary embolism may occur.
Dealing with vascular disease
Whether you are considering atherosclerosis, deep vein thrombosis, or one of many other forms of vascular disease, there are steps that you can take to lower your risk. A healthy lifestyle can decrease your chances of experiencing vascular disease. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can reduce your risk level. The same can be said if you have a smoking habit. Long periods of sitting or standing still, such as during a long car or plane ride, can increase your risk of DVT. By avoiding or correcting behaviors that increase your risk of vascular disease, you can better your chances of living a healthy life.
If you are diagnosed with vascular disease you still have options. Today’s medical technology has led to a number of safe and effective treatments that, when combined with a healthy lifestyle, can help you manage your condition. The first step towards getting treatment is making contact with our Best Chicago Vascular Doctor Dr. Ramon Castro, an expert in vein care.
Here at the Chicago Vein Care Center we understand that dealing with vascular disease can be a stressful experience, so we strive to offer the warm, personal care you deserve. Whether you are undergoing spider vein treatment, varicose vein treatment, or simply want to ask us “why do my legs hurt,” we are with you every step of the way. If you’d like to learn more about how our vein center can help you fight back against vascular disease, give our Chicago, IL office a call. We look forward to hearing from you!