What are the common disorders of the circulatory system?

Common disorders of the circulatory system include coronary artery disease, hypertension, stroke, and heart failure.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most common circulatory system disorders. It occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, become hardened and narrowed due to the build-up of plaque on the inner walls or lining of the arteries (atherosclerosis). This build-up restricts the blood flow to the heart muscle by creating blockages in the coronary arteries. Symptoms can include chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath. If left untreated, CAD can lead to a heart attack.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is another common disorder. It is a condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. This can damage the blood vessels and lead to other health complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Hypertension often has no symptoms, so regular check-ups are important for early detection and management.

Stroke is a serious condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. This can be due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (haemorrhagic stroke). Without blood, brain cells can be damaged or die. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms, depending on the part of the brain affected, including paralysis, speech difficulties, and memory loss.

Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can result from conditions that overwork the heart, such as high blood pressure and coronary artery disease. Symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet.