Diseases of the veins and arteries can be very serious, and that’s why it is important to understand the potential threats to the health of your veins. Unfortunately, many of the diseases that can attack the veins do not present symptoms of heart disease until potentially deadly conditions happen, such as stroke or heart attack. Read on to learn some preventative tips about possible vein and artery conditions and diseases.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) a Symptoms of Heart Disease
This disease is caused by plaque build up in the arteries, and can lead to heart attack, heart failure, or arrhythmia. If you have high blood presser, high cholesterol, or diabetes, you are at risk for CAD.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis is caused by blood clots forming in deep veins. Hospitalization, prolonged immobility, surgery, and estrogen-based medications can put you at risk. Movement is integral in reducing your risk of DVT, so getting regular exercise and moving around if you have to sit or stand for long periods can be beneficial.
Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
Pulmonary embolisms are caused when a blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, which can potentially be fatal. Heart disease and cancer can put you in a higher risk group, along with being immobile for long periods of time. Additionally, smoking and obesity can also raise your risk level.
Atherosclerosis
This disease is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries, which can then lead to stroke or heart attack. High cholesterol is a major risk factor. You can reduce your risk by eating a healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, and taking any prescribed high cholesterol and/or blood medications.
Stroke
This is the deadliest vascular disease and is caused when a clogged/ruptured artery blocks flow to the brain. You control your risks of a stroke by maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and controlling high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Varicose Veins
This common vein disease can run the full range from a cosmetic to a serious medical condition. Varicose veins are caused by blood pooling in the veins due to faulty valves in the vein. If the varicose veins progress to becoming painful or swollen, medical attention is required.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
This is associated with varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis. Those with CVI have veins that are blocked and damaged. Essentially, you can reduce your risk by wearing compressing stockings and avoid standing/sitting for extended periods of time.
Carotid Artery Disease
This vein condition affects the large arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain and can increase your risk for stroke. Those with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and a family history are at a higher risk. Those with these conditions should take the proper medication to reduce their risk factors.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
This is often associated with atherosclerosis, and the risks rise as we age. With PAD, those veins and arteries farther away from the heart narrow due to plaque build up, causing a decrease in blood flow. This will lead to pain and fatigue in the legs. High blood presser, high cholesterol, diabetes, and atherosclerosis put you at a higher risk for PAD. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and keep taking your prescribed medication to control high cholesterol and blood pressure.
If you want to know more about vein and artery disease, or if you want to know if you are at risk, please call us at St. Louis Laser Vein Center to schedule a consultation.
