Your body’s vascular system includes arteries, veins and capillaries that carry blood to and away from your heart. Unfortunately, problems with this network of blood vessels are common and can be very serious.
In some cases, arteries may become hardened, thick and built up with deposits of fat and plaque (a condition called atherosclerosis). Some vascular diseases lead to blood clots, which prevent blood flow to the brain or heart. Another vascular issue is caused when blood vessels burst, causing bleeding inside the body.
As you grow older, you’re more likely to develop vascular disease. However, other factors or lifestyle habits can put you at risk, including:
- Pregnancy
- Illness or injury
- Standing or sitting still for long periods of time
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Family history of heart or vascular conditions
- Diabetes or high cholesterol
Maintaining a healthy diet and healthy weight, not smoking, and staying active can help prevent vascular disease. To learn more about this condition, contact your physician at the Jefferson Surgical Clinic.