Introduction Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to a buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances—collectively known as plaque—on their inner walls. This process can restrict blood flow and increase the risk…
Introduction Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that most commonly appear in the legs and feet. They occur when the valves in the veins do not function properly, causing blood to pool and the veins to swell. While varicose veins…
Introduction Vasculitis is a group of disorders characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels. This inflammation can cause the walls of blood vessels to thicken, weaken, narrow, or scar, restricting blood flow to organs and tissues. Vasculitis can affect any…
Introduction Claudication, often referred to as “leg angina,” is pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs that occurs during physical activity and is relieved by rest. It is a common symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition where narrowed…
Introduction Angina is a type of chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen-rich blood. It is often a symptom of underlying heart disease, particularly coronary artery disease. Angina can be a warning…
Introduction Gangrene is a serious condition that occurs when body tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply or a severe infection. It most commonly affects the extremities, such as the toes, fingers, feet, or hands, but can also…
Introduction Temporal arteritis, also known as giant cell arteritis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the large and medium-sized arteries, particularly those in the head and neck. The inflammation can cause headaches, vision problems, and jaw pain, and may lead…
Introduction High blood fat levels, also known as hyperlipidemia or high cholesterol, refer to elevated levels of fats (lipids) such as cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Over time, these fats can build up in the walls of blood vessels,…
Introduction An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a bulge or swelling in the wall of the abdominal aorta, the largest blood vessel in the body. If an AAA grows large or ruptures, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding. Early detection…
Introduction A blood clot in the lung, known as a pulmonary embolism (PE), is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. It occurs when a blood clot, usually originating from the deep veins of the legs, travels to the lungs and…
