Vascular Conditions

Aortic Aneurysm
An enlargement of the aorta (the main blood vessel that delivers blood to the body), in the abdomen. This condition can be life-threatening if it bursts. Aortic aneurysms are more common in older men and those who smoke.

Symptoms:

• Often grows slowly without symptoms.
• As it grows, some people may notice a pulsating feeling near the navel (bellybutton)
• Pain in the back, belly or side may be sign of impending rupture

Carotid Artery Stenosis
Narrowing of the blood vessels in the neck that carry blood from the heart to the brain. Can be caused by cholesterol build-up in the blood vessels (atherosclerosis). Blood clots can form in this area and travel up to the brain, leading to stroke.
 

Symptoms:

• This condition may be present for a long time before symptoms appear.
• When symptoms do occur, stroke or brief stroke-like attacks are common
• Stroke symptoms:  Trouble walking, speaking, and understanding, as well as paralysis or numbness of the face, arm, or leg

Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) or Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
A circulatory condition in which narrowed blood vessels reduce blood flow to the limbs. Peripheral vascular disease is a sign of fatty deposits and calcium building up in the walls of the arteries (atherosclerosis). Risk factors include aging, diabetes, and smoking. Symptoms include leg pain, particularly when walking.