5 Essential Treatments for Vascular Diseases

Vascular diseases impact blood vessels and circulation. These diseases can lead to serious health issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and limb loss. Early detection and treatment are critical for managing vascular diseases and preventing severe complications that threaten your health. 

Here at Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates, cardiologist and vascular intervention specialist Nader Chadda, MD, FACC, FSCAI, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating complex vascular diseases. Whether you’re diagnosed with peripheral artery disease or coronary artery disease, Dr. Chadda will work closely with you to manage your condition effectively and keep your blood vessels as healthy as possible. Here are five ways in which, together, we can monitor, improve, and treat vascular disease.

Lifestyle modification

The foundation of managing any vascular disease involves significant lifestyle changes. These  include quitting smoking, as smoking is a major risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases. 

Adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight are also crucial. These changes can help slow vascular disease and are often the first line of defense. Treatments are tailored to each patient. In this post, we discuss common approaches for treating vascular disease. 

Medication

Several medications are available to help manage vascular diseases. Antiplatelet medications prevent blood clots, and statins are prescribed to lower cholesterol, reduce plaque buildup in the arteries, and prevent blockages. 

Blood pressure medications are also commonly used to reduce the strain on blood vessels and prevent damage caused by high blood pressure (hypertension). 

Minimally invasive procedures

Certain vascular diseases may require a minimally invasive treatment. For example, in cases of significantly narrowed or blocked arteries, Dr. Chadda may recommend angioplasty. This treatment involves inserting a small balloon and inflating it to open up the affected arteries. This restores blood flow, preventing further complications.

Dr. Chadda often performs stenting alongside angioplasty. This involves placing a small wire mesh tube in the artery to keep it open. These procedures are typically done under local anesthesia and require minimal recovery time, making them a preferred option for many patients.

Surgical interventions

For severe cases of vascular disease, surgery may be necessary. Procedures like bypass surgery, in which a graft is used to reroute blood around a blocked artery, can restore proper blood flow to affected areas. 

Carotid endarterectomy, the removal of plaque from the carotid artery to prevent strokes, is another common surgical treatment. 

Follow-up and monitoring

Continuous follow-up and monitoring are crucial for managing vascular diseases. Regular appointments allow Dr. Chadda to track your vascular health, make adjustments to treatment plans, and catch potential complications early. 

Dr. Chadda often uses non-invasive imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs to monitor blood flow and the condition of your blood vessels. Regular monitoring helps ensure that treatments remain effective and are adjusted as your condition evolves.

Vascular diseases are complex and can be life-threatening, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. If you’re dealing with a vascular condition, consult with the Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates team to create a tailored treatment plan. Call or message one of our offices to request an appointment with Dr. Chadda. We have offices in Hudson and Brooksville, Florida.