Diagnosis in Arterial Diseases
The diagnosis of arterial diseases is usually made through clinical evaluation and imaging methods. Computed Tomographic Angiography (CT Angio) is a method that provides detailed information about the blood vessels in the body.
Additionally, coronary angiography is used when coronary artery disease is suspected and provides important insights into the patient's monitoring and treatment plan.
Symptoms of Arterial Diseases
Arterial blockage is one of the cardiovascular diseases caused by arterial calcification and hardening or blockages in the vessels. Arterial blockages, which can progress without symptoms for a long time, can lead to severe illnesses and death. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment of peripheral vascular diseases are crucial.
Symptoms of arterial blockage include:
Pain that occurs after movement and resolves with rest
Arm pain associated with dizziness or vertigo
Hypertension
Chest pain
Delayed healing of foot wounds
Kidney failure
To diagnose arterial blockages, a patient’s medical history and physical examination are followed by ultrasonography, angiography, or laboratory evaluation. Additionally, computed angiography and magnetic resonance angiography may also be required. These tests help determine whether the patient has peripheral artery disease.
What is Acute Arterial Blockage?
Acute arterial blockage is an emergency vascular condition caused by the sudden blockage of arteries, leading to potential loss of a limb or organ. The most common causes include sudden blockage of arteries narrowed by atherosclerosis or a heart-originated clot due to atherosclerosis.
In acute arterial blockage, circulation below the blocked artery is impaired, resulting in severe pain, numbness, cooling of the legs, discoloration (bruising), and paralysis within a few hours. This condition requires emergency surgery. During the operation, the clot is removed with a special catheter. If feasible, the clot can be removed or dissolved using angiography. In chronic arterial blockages, medications or endovascular treatments are applied. If surgery is needed, artificial vascular grafts are used.
Treatment of Arterial Blockage
Arterial blockage results from the narrowing or blockage of arteries in the body. Treatment options include surgery, medication, and oxygen therapy. While acute vascular blockages require emergency surgery, medications or artificial vascular grafts are used for chronic blockages. Specific conditions like Buerger's disease may require unique treatment approaches.
Risk Factors in Arterial Diseases
Arterial diseases are a significant concern for heart and vascular health. Several risk factors play a role in the development of these conditions. Here are the risk factors for arterial diseases:
Age: Over 45 years in men, over 55 years or early menopause in women.
Gender: More common in men.
Family History: Early heart disease, heart attack, or sudden death in first-degree relatives (mother, father, siblings).
Smoking: Increases the risk of arterial blockage.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Blood pressure readings of 140/90 mmHg or higher, or being under treatment.
Cholesterol Levels: High bad cholesterol (LDL) and low good cholesterol (HDL).
Physical Inactivity: Engaging in exercise for at least 30 minutes, three times a week is important.
Diabetes: Adversely affects arterial health.
Weight: Body mass index and waist circumference can increase the risk.
Stress: Prolonged stress can facilitate the development of the disease.
Depression: Also a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
Addressing these factors is crucial for preventing or slowing the progression of the disease. Paying attention to these risk factors is essential for maintaining heart and vascular health.
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) in Arterial Diseases
The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) is a reliable method used for the early diagnosis and monitoring of peripheral arterial disorders. This test evaluates blood flow to the legs by calculating the pressure difference between the ankle and arm. Normally, this ratio is approximately one.
However, in vascular disease, the amount of blood flowing to the legs decreases, lowering the ABI. This test is simple, radiation-free, cost-effective, and very useful for diagnosing and monitoring diseases, although it does not precisely indicate which artery is blocked.
Doppler Ultrasonography in Arterial Diseases
Doppler Ultrasonography is an essential imaging method for the diagnosis and monitoring of arterial diseases. This method evaluates the direction and speed of blood flow while providing information about the structure of the vessels. Color Doppler and Duplex Color Doppler ultrasound devices are used for this purpose. Combined with other methods like the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), Doppler ultrasonography offers an objective way to monitor arterial health and track disease progression.
Computed Tomographic Angiography (CT Angio) in Arterial Diseases
Computed Tomographic Angiography (CT Angio) is an imaging method used to diagnose arterial diseases. This test evaluates narrowing, blockages, aneurysms, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and other vascular diseases. CT angiography provides more detailed and definitive results compared to magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography.
Angiography in Arterial Diseases
Angiography is the process of imaging blood vessels by injecting a special dye (contrast material) into them and taking X-rays. This method is used to evaluate narrowing, blockages, and dilations in the heart, kidneys, brain, abdomen, arms, and leg vessels. Angiography is a general term meaning "vessel imaging." Specifically, imaging of arteries is called arteriography, while for veins, it is called venography.
Angiography visualizes blood vessels filled with contrast material. However, it should be noted that bones, intestinal gases, and other tissues may obscure the image. Therefore, digital subtraction angiography (DSA), where only the contrast material is used for imaging, is more commonly used. Angiography is utilized for diagnosing and sometimes treating peripheral arterial blockages, aneurysms, renal vascular diseases, intestinal vascular diseases, carotid artery diseases, and venous diseases.
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) in Arterial Diseases
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is a less invasive and radiation-free method compared to traditional angiography. Therefore, it is preferred for diagnosing and monitoring vascular problems. It also provides more detailed images, helping doctors better understand vascular problems. MRA is used to obtain detailed information about the brain, kidneys, lungs, heart, abdomen, neck, arms, and legs.
MRA is an effective diagnostic method for conditions such as carotid artery diseases, aorta and its branches, dissections, and diseases of the arm and leg arteries. During the examination, a contrast agent may be required, and the procedure typically takes about an hour. MRA causes no discomfort to patients and helps obtain clearer results. However, its use during pregnancy should be discussed with a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common types of arterial diseases include atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease, and aortic aneurysms. Atherosclerosis is characterized by plaque buildup in the arterial walls, restricting blood flow and leading to serious cardiovascular problems. Peripheral artery disease occurs when arteries in peripheral areas like the legs and arms narrow or become blocked, often presenting with pain and cramping during walking. Aortic aneurysms involve the weakening and dilation of the aortic wall, posing a risk of rupture. Early diagnosis and treatment of these diseases are vital for preventing severe complications.
Risk factors for arterial diseases include age, genetic predisposition, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Advanced age leads to loss of arterial elasticity, making the vessels more susceptible to disease. Genetic factors are linked to a family history of these conditions. Smoking damages and narrows the arteries, significantly increasing disease risk. Additionally, high blood pressure and cholesterol harm the arterial walls, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. Diabetes negatively impacts vascular health by causing uncontrolled spikes in blood sugar, raising the risk of arterial diseases.
Arterial diseases can significantly reduce quality of life. These conditions limit daily activities due to chronic pain, fatigue, and restricted mobility caused by inadequate blood flow to organs and tissues. For instance, individuals with peripheral artery disease may experience severe leg pain and cramping during walking, forcing them to reduce physical activity. Advanced arterial diseases can also lead to life-threatening events like heart attacks and strokes, resulting in loss of independence and the need for continuous medical care. These conditions may also affect mental health, causing depression and anxiety.
