Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. However, there is no particular age to begin screening for cardiovascular disease. If you have risk factors, consulting a vascular doctor can help protect your cardiovascular and overall health. These healthcare providers specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions that affect the vascular and circulatory systems.
The vascular system, or blood vessels, includes arteries, veins, and tiny capillaries that connect them. Arteries supply oxygen and nutrients in the blood from the heart to the rest of the body's organs and tissues. After other body parts get the nutrients they need, the veins take the blood back to the heart, carrying waste like carbon dioxide. This blood is then sent to the lungs, allowing one to breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide.
The vascular system is vulnerable to various conditions, including atherosclerosis, aneurysms, and peripheral artery disease (PAD). A vascular doctor has the training and expertise to understand the intricacies of these conditions and assess their impact on the patient's cardiovascular and overall health. The vascular doctor can visualize the blood vessels and identify abnormalities that may lead to serious health complications using advanced imaging techniques- such as ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs.
While vascular doctors and cardiologists both address issues in the cardiovascular system, there are differences in their expertise. A cardiologist specializes in treating issues that directly affect the heart. In contrast, a vascular doctor treats the blood vessels throughout the body, including the aorta, a large artery that sends oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body.
A patient may need to see a vascular doctor if they are at an increased risk of vascular disease. These risk factors may include:
Patients should also consult a vascular doctor if they are experiencing symptoms of vascular disease, such as chest pain during exercise or leg pain, cramping, or swelling.
Vascular doctors work with patients to identify and manage existing risk factors that contribute to vascular diseases or harm cardiovascular health. By addressing these risk factors through lifestyle modifications, medications, or other interventions, these healthcare providers may help prevent the development or progression of vascular diseases. This preventive approach may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks or heart valve disease.
In cases where the patient already has an advanced vascular disease, the vascular doctor may provide effective treatment, such as angioplasty, stent placement, or vascular surgery. For example, the doctor may recommend an angioplasty if the patient has peripheral artery disease (PAD). This procedure can restore blood flow to the affected area, alleviating symptoms and improving overall vascular health.
If you are concerned about your cardiovascular health or have risk factors related to vascular disease, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation. Our team can guide you through the process and help you establish a heart-healthy life. Call our office at (714) 598-1194 today to learn more.
Request an appointment here: https://visoc.org or call Vascular & Interventional Specialists of Orange County at (714) 598-1194for an appointment in our Orange office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Vascular Doctor in Orange, CA.
Proper circulation is important for optimal health. However, plaque buildup, blood clots, and narrowed blood vessels cause poor circulation, leading to serious health issues. Poor circulation treatment can directly impact your overall quality of health and well-being.The human circulatory system sends blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout the body. However, poor circulation can reduce the amount…
Leg ulcers pose a significant health concern that should never be ignored. These sores are slow to heal, painful, and can appear in multiple areas or one, impacting the quality of one's life. While various factors can contribute to the development of this condition, vascular care can facilitate healing and prevent reoccurrence.Leg ulcers are typically…
Blood clots, or thrombosis, can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. They occur when blood cells clump together, forming a semi-solid mass within the blood vessels. A common blood clot treatment is anticoagulant medication. Vascular surgeons and doctors can prescribe these medications to prevent life-threatening complications that blood clots can cause.Anticoagulant medications, commonly known…
Wondering if you should undergo varicose vein treatment? Many people who have varicose veins will choose to have them treated. They either do not like the way their varicose veins look, are experiencing some discomfort or pain associated with them or a combination of the two. Whatever reason for your wanting to understand more about…