Connective tissue is your body’s support system. When it stops working the way it should, it can affect many vital areas, including your heart and blood vessels.
There are over 200 connective tissue disorders. Some are inherited. Many can severely impact your heart and blood vessels.
At Cleveland Clinic, you’ll have a coordinated team of cardiovascular specialists who listen carefully, confirm your diagnosis and work with you to create a personalized care plan that will protect your heart’s health today and for the future.
Our providers regularly care for people with all types of connective tissue disorders which affect your heart and blood vessels. Their expertise, paired with a full range of services — from the latest imaging and genetic testing to medication and surgery — provides thoughtful, proactive care tailored to your needs. Meet our team.
A team of providers across specialties works together to treat the many ways connective tissue disorders can affect your body. This means you get seamless, comprehensive care with a treatment plan designed to support your needs both now and in the future.
No two people experience connective tissue conditions the same way. Your treatment plan and ongoing care are based on your individual diagnosis, symptoms and goals.
Our cardiovascular team is actively involved in ongoing research into all aortic conditions, including connective tissue disorders. We make sure you receive the latest treatments and the highest quality care.
You may not always need an in-person appointment. Virtual visits are sometimes an option. You’ll receive the same excellent care from the comfort of home.
Cleveland Clinic is nationally ranked for its heart care and recognized as a world leader in cardiovascular care.
We care for a full range of connective tissue disorders that affect your heart and blood vessels, including:
Whether your condition is already confirmed or you’re still looking for answers, our heart and blood vessel team works together and with other specialists as needed to develop a coordinated, comprehensive and personalized care plan.
During your appointment, we’ll review your symptoms, medical history, any prior testing and do a physical exam. From there, we’ll go over next steps, including any additional tests you may need and the specialists who may be involved in your care. Some tests can be completed during your visit, while others may be scheduled for a different day.
We’ll begin with general tests for connective tissue disorders. Then, depending on the results, we may recommend more targeted tests based on the type of disorder we suspect. These may include:
Your diagnosis will also help determine how often you need testing down the road. Our goal is to find any changes as early as possible so we can begin treatment right away before any complications develop.
Our team of experts has experience in a wide range of specialties. But they all work closely together, sharing test results and other information to give you seamless and comprehensive care. In addition to cardiologists and vascular specialists, your team may include:
If you’re pregnant with Loeys-Dietz syndrome, you may be at higher risk of uterine rupture, so we may add a perinatologist to your care team. This high-risk pregnancy expert, alongside our cardio-obstetrics team, will help support pregnancy planning and care.
Our healthcare providers see patients at Main Campus.
Your treatment depends on your diagnosis, symptoms and any risk factors. You might only need monitoring and medication, or you may need surgery at some point. We’ll watch carefully for changes and help you manage your condition over time.
Our team will work together to find the right combination of medications to lower your blood pressure, reduce stress on your aorta and arteries, and manage and treat any related symptoms. We’ll also adjust any medications as your condition changes.
If necessary, we may recommend surgery to repair or replace part of your aorta or to treat other heart valve problems. Our heart surgeons have years of experience in treating the most complex aortic and vascular conditions. You may have:
We offer therapies to help you stay strong and active in daily life. These may include physical therapy, pain management and suggested activities that are safe for your heart.
If you have a connective tissue disorder that affects your heart and blood vessels, regular heart check-ups are important. You’ll need heart exams and imaging tests, like ultrasounds (echocardiograms) or MRIs, to keep a close eye on your aorta and valves. Medications can help protect your heart and manage your blood pressure. Make sure to follow your schedule, take your medicines and watch for warning signs, like chest pain or shortness of breath.
A cardiovascular connective tissue disorder is a lifelong condition. But with regular monitoring and expert care, you can stay active and live well. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or are managing your condition long-term, our expert heart team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Getting an appointment with one of our connective tissue disorders experts is easy. We’re here to help you get the care you need.
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