What Is a Blood Vessel Disease?

The blood vessels are responsible for the transport of blood, plasma and oxygen throughout the body. They consist of veins and arteries. When the veins and arteries become narrow, blood vessel disease can appear. The blood vessels in the arms, legs and abdomen are all affected.

Significance

• If blood vessel disease goes untreated, it can lead to gangrene. This is a condition where the cells and tissues of the extremities die, which can result in the need for amputation.

Plaque

• The reason the blood vessels become narrow is because of plaque that forms as a result of fatty material in the blood.

Factors

• There are various risk factors that can cause blood vessel disease. Some of these include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle.

Symptoms

• Some symptoms of blood vessel disease include poor circulation to the hands and feet, pale skin and aches and pains in the muscles.

Prevention/Solution

• There are also ways to prevent blood vessel disease. This can be done by eating a diet that is low in saturated fat, exercising and avoiding excessive use of alcohol and tobacco products.