The circulatory system, or cardiovascular system, is made up of the heart, veins, arteries and capillaries. This system is responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body. Heart disease and other circulatory problems are major sources of disability and death. The American Heart association reports that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.
Aortic Aneurysm
The aorta is the major blood vessel carrying blood away from the heart. A bulging of part of this artery is called an aneurysm. Large or fast growing aneurysms can rupture, causing significant loss of blood into the abdominal cavity. Most aneurysms occur in the abdominal area, but some begin higher up in the chest, according to the Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Usually, aortic aneurysms cause no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they may include back, chest or abdominal pain. A patient might be aware of a pulsating feeling around the naval area. Treatment options range from watchful waiting to surgery, depending on the size and location of the aneurysm.
Atherosclerosis
In atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, a substance called plaque builds up in the arteries. Plaques are made up of cells, connective tissue and certain fats. These deposits occur in patches along the inner walls of large and medium sized arteries. Growth of plaques can block blood flow and oxygen to the affected areas, possibly leading to a heart attack or stroke. Smoking and high blood pressure are two major risk factors for developing atherosclerosis.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition in which a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins, usually in the thigh or calf. The clot is a clumping of blood within the vessel. Many people with the condition have no symptoms, but they may have leg pain, swelling or skin discoloration in the affected area.The main danger of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is that a piece of the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, according to the National Heart lung and Blood Institute. When this happens, it is called a pulmonary embolism. People may then experience shortness of breath and pain with deep breathing. Factors contributing to the formation of a DVT are being bed ridden, prolonged sitting, trauma to the area, pregnancy and obesity. Drug treatment is often used to break up clots.
Polyarteritis Nodosa
Ployarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a serious inflammatory disease of the small- to medium-sized arteries. Many body systems are involved, including the skin, central nervous system, heart, kidneys and intestinal tract, reports the Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center. PAN is commonly associated with hepatitis B infection, but in most cases the cause for the illness is unknown. Symptoms of PAN are quite variable, although fever, night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, and muscle and joint aches are typical. Treatment of the disease depends on the extent of the illness, and which parts of the body are involved. Corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs are often used.
Arteriovenous Malformations
Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), are abnormal tangles of blood vessels within an area of the circulatory system. They develop either before or right after birth, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. AVMs that form in the brain or spinal cord can result in particularly severe problems and even death. Most people with AVMs in the brain or spinal cord experience few if any symptoms. If symptoms arise, it is because either the AVM is causing a decrease in oxygen to the area, bleeding, or pressing on a vital structure. Headaches, seizures and paralysis are some possible effects. AVMs result in the deaths of about 1 percent of people with the condition annually.
