Overview
Small vessel disease (SVD) affects the small arteries in the heart, impairing their function. This condition leads to reduced blood flow, potentially causing chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and other heart-related symptoms.
Types of Small vessel disease (SVD)
- Coronary Microvascular Disease (CMVD):
- Affects the small arteries branching off from the heart’s main blood vessels.
- Also known as microvascular endothelial dysfunction.
- Cerebral Small Vessel Disease:
- Involves damage to small blood vessels in the brain.
- Associated with cognitive decline and vascular dementia.
Causes of Small vessel disease (SVD)
The underlying causes of SVD include:
- High Blood Pressure
- High Cholesterol Levels
- Obesity
- Diabetes Mellitus.
Risk Factors of Small vessel disease (SVD)
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing SVD:
- Obesity (Body Mass Index ≥ 30)
- Diabetes
- Family History (especially in women)
- High Blood Pressure
- Sedentary Lifestyle
- Advancing Age (≥ 45 in men, ≥ 55 in women)
- Insulin Resistance
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Symptoms of Small vessel disease (SVD)
Common symptoms associated with SVD:1. Chest Pain (Angina): Often triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress.
Discomfort or pressure in the chest, which may radiate to the left arm, jaw, neck, back, or abdomen.
May be mistaken for indigestion or heartburn.
2. Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
May occur at rest in severe cases.
Linked to reduced blood flow due to narrowed small arteries.
3. Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or weakness.
Can impact daily activities.
Often accompanies other SVD symptoms.
Preventions of Small vessel disease (SVD)
To reduce the risk of SVD:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels
- Engage in Regular Physical Activity
- Quit Smoking
- Adopt a Nutrient-Rich Diet
- Effectively Manage Diabetes.
Diagnosis of Small vessel disease (SVD)
- Symptoms Assessment: Evaluate chest pain, shortness of breath, and other relevant signs.
- Specialized Tests: Include coronary angiography and cardiac MRI.
- Differential Diagnosis: Rule out other heart conditions.
Treatment for Small vessel disease (SVD)
- Medications:
- Nitroglycerin
- Calcium Channel Blockers
- Antiplatelet Drugs
- Lifestyle Modifications:
- Regular Exercise
- Heart-Healthy Diet
- Stress Management
- Smoking Cessation
- Revascularization Procedures:
- Angioplasty or Stenting for severe cases
- Regular Follow-up: Monitor symptoms and adjust treatment as needed.
When to seek medical attention ?
If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical help. Early intervention is crucial.
