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​​​​Vascular disease

Cardiologists at The Christ Hospital Health Network are experts in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease. Our vascular specialists, working together with experts from many fields, provide comprehensive care to patients with all types of vascular disease.

The vascular system, also called the circulatory system, is made up of the vessels that carry blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients. Conditions that affect this system are called vascular diseases.

Vascular disease is a common problem that can lead to a life-threatening or disabling stroke or heart attack. Risk factors include aging, diabetes and smoking.

Since most people don't experience any symptoms, early detection can be lifesaving. That's why The Christ Hospital Health Network offers a technically advanced heart and vascular screening to our at-risk patients.

About vascular disease

Vascular disease is the build-up of a sticky substance called "plaque" in the arteries of your legs, neck or abdomen. This build-up reduces blood flow, which can lead to a heart attack, aneurysm (when the wall of an artery weakens, creating a bulge) or stroke.

Types of vascular disease include:

  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm —This occurs when an area of the aorta enlarges or "balloons". The aorta is the main blood vessel supply to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs.

  • Stroke and carotid artery disease —The carotid arteries provide blood to your brain. They can become narrowed or blocked.

  • Arterial disease, including peripheral artery disease (PAD) —These conditions involve poor blood flow in the legs.

  • Venous disease (veins that become diseased or abnormal) —These include varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis/DVT, a blood clot in the legs and phlebitis, an inflammation of the walls of the vein.

Your doctor will check for vascular disease based on any symptoms and medical history. There are different symptoms for the different types of vascular disease, depending on what part of your body is affected. This disease most commonly affects the arteries of the heart, brain and legs, but it may also affect other organs, such as kidneys and eyes.

Risk factors in your medical history may include:

  • Age (if you are over 50)

  • High cholesterol 

  • High blood pressure 

  • Diabetes 

  • History of smoking 

  • Prior heart disease or heart surgery

  • Family history of vascular disease, including stroke, heart attack, high blood pressure, kidney failure, sudden cardiac death or abdominal aortic aneurysms

Why choose The Christ Hospital for vascular disease

At The Christ Hospital, you can expect our skilled, compassionate vascular specialists and staff to provide you with the highest level of care. If you experience symptoms of vascular disease, or if you've been diagnosed, our skilled, compassionate vascular specialists and staff are here to provide you with the highest level of care.

Our vascular program offers the most experienced and comprehensive care in Greater Cincinnati.

  • Top 50 heart hospital - The Christ Hospital has been named one of America's 50 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Surgery by HealthGrades and one of the World's Best Hospitals for Cardiology by Newsweek.

  • Affordable $29 screening - Our new screening program uses advanced technology to provide a completely pain-free and non-invasive screening for vascular and heart disease in just 15 minutes. Results are sent to you and your family doctor.

  • Specialized expertise -  We offer the most extensive expertise across the spectrum of heart and vascular care. Our doctors are known leaders in cardiovascular care and are focused by specific conditions.

  • Treatment options - Our patients benefit from more treatment options and personalized care. We take a progressive approach to vascular disease treatment.

  • Clinical research - Our physicians have developed many of the new techniques in cardiovascular medicine over the past 20 years. We provide access to treatments that may not be available elsewhere.

  • Heart and vascular support group - For patients with a heart-related condition or vascular disease, we offer education and support. We encourage you share your experiences to learn how to live your healthiest life.