Common Pathologies Of The Cardio-Vascular System

Understanding Common Cardiovascular Pathologies

The cardiovascular system is a powerhouse, keeping oxygen-rich blood flowing throughout the body. But when things go wrong, the effects can be serious—even life-threatening. Here are some common conditions that can affect the heart and blood vessels, along with their symptoms and potential risks.

Angina: When the Heart’s Crying for Help

The heart has its own blood supply, and when that flow is restricted, it can cause angina—a type of chest pain that can feel tight, dull, or heavy. This pain may also radiate to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back.

Stable Angina – Typically triggered by physical exertion or stress and eases with rest.

Unstable Angina – More unpredictable and dangerous, as it can persist even when resting, potentially signaling an impending heart attack.

Aneurysm: The Silent Danger

An aneurysm occurs when a weakened artery wall balloons outward. If it ruptures, it can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding, especially when it affects the brain or the heart.

Aortic Aneurysm – Affects the body’s main artery (the aorta).

Brain Aneurysm – Most common in the arteries at the base of the brain and can cause symptoms like:

Sudden, severe headache

Nausea and vomiting

Blurred vision or light sensitivity

Seizures or loss of consciousness

Aneurysms can develop without symptoms, making them particularly dangerous if undetected.

Leukemia: When Blood Cells Turn Against You

Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that affects bone marrow and white blood cells, causing them to multiply uncontrollably and crowd out oxygen-carrying red blood cells.

Some types are more common in children.

Early symptoms may resemble the flu, including:

Fever and night sweats

Fatigue and weakness

Loss of appetite and weight loss

Early detection is key to managing and treating leukemia effectively.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): The Hidden Blood Clot Risk

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. The danger? If the clot breaks loose, it can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism), heart (heart attack), or brain (stroke).

Risk Factors:

Prolonged immobility (e.g., long-haul flights)

Trauma to blood vessels

Certain medical conditions that increase clotting risk

Symptoms:

Throbbing or cramping pain in one leg (calf or thigh)

Swelling and warmth in the affected area

Red or darkened skin, tender veins

Treatment:

Anticoagulant medications like warfarin or rivaroxaban can prevent further clotting and reduce risk.

Haematoma: More Than Just a Bruise

We’ve all had bruises, but did you know they’re actually a type of haematoma? This occurs when blood leaks from damaged vessels and pools under the skin.

Most haematomas dissolve naturally, but in some cases, they can continue to grow, especially if the bleeding doesn’t stop. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be needed to remove the collected blood.

Final Thoughts

The cardiovascular system is crucial to our survival, and when things go wrong, the consequences can be severe. Understanding these conditions helps us recognize symptoms early and seek medical attention when needed. Taking care of your heart with a healthy diet, exercise, and regular check-ups can go a long way in preventing these life-threatening pathologies.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and listen to your body—it might just save your life!

View all messages