Small vessel disease
Small Vessel Disease (pronunciation: /smɔːl 'vɛsəl dɪ'ziːz/) is a condition that affects the small arteries and arterioles. The etymology of the term is derived from the English words "small", referring to the size of the vessels affected, "vessel", a term used to describe a conduit for carrying fluids, and "disease", a term used to describe a particular abnormal, pathological condition that affects part or all of an organism.
Overview
Small vessel disease is a condition in which the walls of the small arteries in the heart are damaged. The condition makes these arteries stiff, reducing their ability to expand and contract as blood flows through them. This disease is also known as coronary microvascular disease (MVD).
Symptoms
Symptoms of small vessel disease can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. These symptoms may be more noticeable during times of physical exertion or stress.
Causes
The exact cause of small vessel disease is unknown, but it's thought to be linked to the same factors that lead to coronary artery disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of small vessel disease can be challenging, as the disease affects the smaller arteries that aren't easily seen on standard heart imaging tests. Doctors may use a variety of tests, including angiogram, MRI, and stress test, to diagnose the condition.
Treatment
Treatment for small vessel disease typically involves lifestyle changes and medications to control the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Small vessel disease
- Wikipedia's article - Small vessel disease
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