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Vascular health care is a substantial part of the well-being since it includes arteries, veins, and the lymphatic system. Medical complications attributed to defects in these systems can be grave with the possibility of a heart attack, stroke and limb amputations. It is also important to know the warning signs and symptoms that arise which make one seek a vascular specialist for proper maintenance of one’s vascular health. In this article, we will talk about the situations in which a vascular specialist is needed and how to get ready for such a visit.

Definition of a Vascular Specialist

A vascular specialist is a physician/doctor who is qualified to identify diseases or anomalies lying within the vascular system and prescribe ways to manage those diseases or conditions. Vascular specialists comprise of vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, and cardiologists specializing in cardiovascular diseases. These specialists employ several methods and treatments to address peripheral artery disease (PAD): varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), aneurysms and others.

Common Vascular Conditions

There are quite a number of conditions that may justify seeking the services of a vascular specialist. Here are some of the most common:

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): This is a condition that occurs because of the constriction of arteries, this time arteries in the legs hence limiting the bloodstream. Some of the symptoms are leg pain, pain or cramping in the leg while walking or doing any activity and ulcers or sores that do not heal.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): When a clot forms in a deep vein, usually in a patient’s leg, it is called DVT. The skin over the thrombus may be swollen and hot to the touch. DVT is a case that requires immediate attention as if left unattended can lead to fatal conditions like pulmonary embolism.

Varicose Veins: These veins assume numerous colors, are bulging and knotted and can be a source of pain. Varicose veins should be treated promptly in case these change the skin and associated wounds appear.

Aneurysms: This is when there is a dilatation of an artery in a certain area. Especially concerning are the aortic aneurysms since it can be fatal in case of a rupture. Sudden severe abdominal or back pain is one of the most frequently reported complaints.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency: It’s a condition that results when the veins have trouble returning blood to the heart that leads to swelling, pain and change of skin color and texture.

Signs and Symptoms to watch out for

Vascular problems may have various signs and symptoms that when noticed, should be objected to in good time. You may want to consult a vascular surgeon if you encounter the following symptoms:

  1. Leg Pain or Cramping

Persistent pain or cramping of the leg always on exertion of the leg may indicate leg pain due to peripheral artery disease which is mostly called PAD. This disease is frequently bothersome but goes away when the person rests only to return back as a result of the same activities.

  1. Swelling in the Legs

Swelling sustained or otherwise especially with occlusion or heat, is indicative of a probability of DVT or chronic venous insufficiency. Such types of conditions should be treated quickly to avoid progression.

  1. Skin Changes

Alterations in the color, nature, and/or temperature of the skin on the legs may also be attributed to ineffective circulation or chronic venous insufficiency. Look out for discoloration, sores and winkles that persist and do not resolve and contact a doctor.

  1. Wounds That Do Not Heal

Cuts or wounds on the legs and feet that may even be on a person that are not healing up may suggest the other blood flow, is. An early check up can help avoid the chances of something worse developing.

  1. Family History of Vascular Disease

In case of vascular diseases like stroke, heart attack or aneurysms, a person would not generally seek visit but it’s advisable to book appointments regularly with a vascular doctor in specialists branch.

  1. Fatigue or Weakness for no clear Reason

Fatigue and muscle weakness (especially of the legs) with no apparent cause, should be seen as a sign of poor circulation. Also, should these symptoms persist medical assistance should be obtained.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Scheduling an appointment with a vascular doctor means that you will be thoroughly assessed with regards to the health of your blood vessels.

  1. Review of the Patient’s Medical History

The doctor will elicit baseline medical and family history and relevant risk factors such as smoking and exercise habits, and symptoms you have or have had if any.

  1. Physical Examination

A complete physical examination will assist in checking the lymphatic circulation in the arms and legs. The pulse may be taken. The skin in question checked for any abnormal changes and swelling or pain noted.

  1. Diagnostic Tests

Depending on the symptoms exhibited, the vascular specialist may perform a range of diagnostic tests including:

  • Ultrasound: This exam allows us to see the blood flow in the arteries and veins in order to look for blockages or clots.
  • Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): This test compares the blood pressure blood flow to the arms with that at the ankle level.
  • CT Angiography or MRI: The two imaging techniques are capable of capturing the blood vessels and even highlight any irregularity within the structures.
  1. Treatment Options

In the management of vascular disorder, if and when it is confirmed, the specialist will present the relevant treatment options to the patient. Such options may include the change of some lifestyle habits, taking drugs, having outpatient treatment or intervention, or seriously invasive surgery based on the diagnosis.

Conclusion: Top Vascular Care Should Be a Priority

It is necessary to know when to consider seeing a vascular physician in a bid to maintain your vascular health. Please do not wait to seek evaluation if legs start hurting, bulging, or changing colors, or if there is a family history of vascular disease. Waiting too long could lead to more serious complications taking place and the quality of life improving.

A healthy vascular system is one area that most people would tend to ignore, but if you are always conscious of the state of your vascular system, it will lead to better vascular health. While you may not think that routine examinations or simply paying attention to how one’s body feels can make much of a difference, these actions, indeed, do go a long way in controlling and even preventing such diseases. Help yourself by visiting a vascular doctor as per the requirement to make sure that there are no issues with the vascular system.

 

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