Small‑Vessel Disease

Overview

Small‑vessel disease—often called cerebral small‑vessel disease when it affects the brain—occurs when the tiny arteries and arterioles become damaged or blocked. This can cause “silent” brain changes, mini‑strokes and, over time, problems with memory, balance and mood. It is a leading cause of lacunar stroke and a major contributor to vascular dementia.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury you’ll receive consultant‑led neurology and cardiology assessment, on‑site MRI imaging, swift blood testing and personalised programmes to lower stroke risk and maintain independence.

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Why Early Action Matters

• Reduces the chance of lacunar stroke and vascular dementia
• Slows progression of gait instability, falls and cognitive decline
• Enables tight control of blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes
• Helps you adopt exercise, diet and sleep routines that protect your brain and heart
• Supports mood and motivation, which often dip when memory or balance worsens

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Symptoms You Might Notice

Small‑vessel disease can be silent, but common signs include:

• Brief weakness, numbness or clumsiness in one limb (possible TIA)
• Slower walking speed, shuffling steps or poor balance
• Memory lapses, reduced concentration or “brain fog”
• Mood change, apathy or low motivation
• Urgency or frequency of urination without infection
• Mild speech or vision disturbances that resolve quickly

Call 999 immediately if you develop sudden facial droop, arm weakness or speech difficulty—these may be stroke symptoms.

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Who Is Most At Risk?

• Long‑standing high blood pressure or diabetes
• High LDL cholesterol, smoking or previous stroke/TIA
• Obstructive sleep apnoea and chronic kidney disease
• Sedentary lifestyle, obesity and poor diet (high salt, ultra‑processed foods)
• Older age and family history of early stroke or dementia

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When To Book An Assessment

Phone 01295 252 281 if you:

• Have experienced a recent TIA or unexplained neurological episode
• Notice gradual changes in balance, gait or short‑term memory
• Want a thorough stroke‑risk review and brain‑health plan
• Struggle to hit blood‑pressure or cholesterol targets despite lifestyle changes or medication

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How We Diagnose And Monitor Small‑Vessel Disease

1. Consultant Neurology & Cardiology Review – detailed history, medication check and examination in our Neurology Service and Cardiology Service.
2. On‑Site MRI Brain – imaging in our MRI Centre to detect white‑matter hyperintensities, lacunes or microbleeds typical of SVD.
3. Same‑Day CT Referral (If Needed) – CT angiography arranged at our sister site, The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, when additional vascular detail is required.
4. Rapid Laboratory Testing – lipid profile, HbA1c, kidney function and inflammatory markers via our Blood‑Testing Service.
5. Blood‑Pressure & Heart‑Rhythm Monitoring – ambulatory BP and Holter monitoring to fine‑tune treatment.
6. Structured Surveillance – follow‑up MRI or clinical reviews typically every 6–12 months, adapted to your progress and risk profile.

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Treatment And Ongoing Support

Risk‑Factor Management

• Aggressive blood‑pressure control, cholesterol lowering and diabetes optimisation
• Smoking cessation, alcohol moderation and weight management with the Private GP Service (/private-gp/)

Medication

• Antiplatelet therapy (e.g., aspirin or clopidogrel) when appropriate
• Statins or other lipid‑lowering agents
• ACE inhibitors/ARBs, calcium‑channel blockers or beta‑blockers to reach BP targets
• SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP‑1 receptor agonists for diabetic patients with cardiovascular risk

Rehabilitation & Lifestyle

• Physiotherapy for strength, balance and gait retraining in the Physiotherapy Department
• Cognitive strategies and pacing with occupational therapy and neuropsychology
• Dietetic advice on Mediterranean‑style eating and salt reduction via the Dietetic Team
• Sleep optimisation (screening and treatment for sleep apnoea)
• Stress‑reduction and mindfulness techniques to support long‑term adherence

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Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital

• Consultant‑delivered clinics with appointments usually available within one week
• MRI imaging and blood tests on site for rapid, coordinated care
• Integrated neurology, cardiology, dietetics and rehabilitation services—no need to visit multiple locations
• Clear referral pathways to our sister hospital for CT and to regional vascular centres for procedures
• Free parking, flexible appointment times and a calm, private environment

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Small‑Vessel Disease Be Reversed?
Existing brain changes cannot be undone, but controlling blood pressure, cholesterol and lifestyle can slow or halt further damage and reduce stroke risk.

Do I Need Lifelong Medication?
Many people do—especially antihypertensives and statins—to keep vessels healthy. Your plan is individualised and reviewed regularly.

Will I Develop Dementia?
Not necessarily. Early risk reduction and cognitive‑health strategies significantly lower the chance of vascular dementia. We monitor and support you over time.

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Protect Your Brain And Stay Independent

Call 01295 252 281 or enquire online to arrange your small‑vessel disease assessment and personalised prevention plan.