Your general well-being is greatly influenced by your vascular health. Issues with the veins, arteries, or other blood vessels can have a major effect on your quality of life. Vascular surgery is a specialty area of medicine that treats circulatory system disorders. However, how can you determine whether this is the best course of action for you?

This blog discusses the 10 main indicators that you may need to see a vascular specialist, the conditions that vascular surgeons treat, and what they do.

Who Is a Vascular Surgeon?

A vascular surgeon is a physician that focuses on identifying and treating conditions affecting the arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels that make up the vascular system.
Important Information on Vascular Surgeons:
They complete five years of medical school, three years of general surgery, and three more years of vascular surgery training. They are skilled in the lymphatic, venous, and arterial circulatory systems.
In order to maximize patient results, they work with other cardiology, radiology, and wound care professionals to undertake both open surgeries like bypass grafting and minimally invasive treatments like angioplasty and stenting.

When Should You See a Vascular Surgeon?

Blood clots, varicose veins, aneurysms, diabetic foot ulcers, and peripheral artery disease (PAD) are among the ailments that vascular surgeons address. You may need to see a vascular surgeon if you:

• Have excessive cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, or other risk factors for vascular disease.
• Have symptoms such as non-healing sores, swelling legs, or leg pain when walking.
• Receive a diagnosis of a vascular disease, such as aneurysms or PAD.
• Face a serious vascular emergency, such as a ruptured aneurysm or blood clot.
• Are considering amputation and want a second opinion.

Ten Indications Vascular Surgery May Be Necessary

1. Constant cramping or leg pain: Claudication, or leg pain or cramping during exercising, may be a sign of PAD. If left untreated, this illness can cause serious consequences by limiting blood supply to your limbs.

2. Ankle or Leg Inflammation: Blood clots or venous insufficiency may be indicated by persistent edema. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) could develop from these disorders if they are not treated

3. Hurting or Getting Worse Vein Varicosity : Initially a cosmetic concern, varicose veins can develop into chronic venous insufficiency, which can lead to discomfort, irritation, or ulceration. The problem can be corrected with minimally invasive procedures.

4. Ulcers or Wounds That Don’t Heal: Poor circulation or consequences from diabetes are frequently associated with sores or ulcers, particularly on the legs or feet. For healing to occur, blood flow must be restored.

5. Extremity numbness or tingling: Regular coldness, tingling, or numbness in your hands or feet could indicate restricted or clogged blood vessels, which need to be evaluated right once.

6. Vascular Disease in the Family: Conditions like aneurysms or PAD often run in families. Regular check-ups with a vascular specialist can help detect problems early.

7. Abdominal or Back Pain That Is Abrupt and Severe: This might indicate an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), a potentially fatal ailment that has to be treated right once.

8. Dizziness or fainting episodes: Frequent fainting or dizziness may be a sign of carotid artery disease, a condition in which the brain receives less blood due to restricted arteries. Strokes can be avoided with treatment.

9. History of Chronic Smoking: Smoking raises the risk of PAD and aneurysms by gradually damaging blood vessels. Smokers should speak with a vascular expert, particularly if they are over 50.

10. Challenge Strolling or Leg Weakness: Claudication is a typical symptom of PAD that can be indicated by pain or weakness during walking. Mobility can be restored and discomfort can be reduced with vascular surgery.

What to Expect from a Vascular Consultation?

A vascular surgeon will evaluate your condition using advanced diagnostic techniques, such as ultrasound, angiography, or CT scans. Based on your diagnosis, they may recommend:

• Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, exercising, or managing chronic conditions.
• Medications: Blood thinners or cholesterol-lowering drugs.
• Minimally invasive procedures: Angioplasty or stenting.
• Surgical interventions: Bypass grafting or aneurysm repair.

Conclusion

Vascular health is vital to maintaining your quality of life. Ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to serious complications. Consulting a vascular surgeon early can prevent the progression of disease, reduce disability, and, in some cases, save lives.

If you recognize any of the signs listed above, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice. With timely intervention, you can improve your vascular health and overall well-being. If you have any concerns or symptoms related to vascular surgery and health, reach out to Thangam Hospital for expert care and guidance.