The Role of a Vascular Doctor in Cardiovascular Health

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 importance of vascular health

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.

The difference between vascular doctors and cardiologists

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.

When to see a vascular doctor

A patient may need to see a vascular doctor if they are at an increased risk of vascular disease. These risk factors may include:

• Diabetes
• High levels of fats in the blood (hyperlipidemia)
• Smoking or other use of tobacco products
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Family history of vascular disease

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.

Preventive measures and treatment

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.

Schedule a consultation today

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.

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