A vascular specialist is a medical professional dedicated to identifying, treating, or managing any condition affecting the vascular system. The vascular system comprises a network of blood and lymph vessels that move throughout and deliver nutrients, blood, and oxygen to the heart and other major arteries. Whether you need them for long-term or short-term care, let us look at how a vascular specialist can assist you.

What to Know About Vascular Specialists

What to expect during the initial appointment

At the initial appointment, the vascular specialist's main aim is to determine whether the condition or symptoms one is experiencing are directly related to an issue with the vascular system. Therefore, they will review symptoms, their severity, and how long the patient has been experiencing them. It is crucial for patients to be honest during this time to receive a clear, accurate diagnosis. Therefore, we recommend creating a list before the appointment so nothing is forgotten.

The vascular specialist will also review the patient's personal medical history and family history, as some vascular conditions are hereditary. While some vascular conditions are obvious, some may require extra testing, such as ordering blood tests, CT scans, X-rays, or an ultrasound and performing a physical examination. That said, patients may not receive a formal diagnosis during the initial appointment but may need to wait a while so the doctor can assess their findings.

Common conditions vascular specialist's treat

While there are a host of vascular conditions, here are some of the most common:

Aneurysms

Aneurysms occur when an artery wall stretches out, or a bulge is present. If left untreated, this area can cause the artery to burst open and cause internal bleeding.

Aortic dissection

The aorta is the main artery responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrient-rich blood cells from the heart to the rest of the body. When it becomes weak, it can create a tear in its inner layer, which can be life-threatening.

Blood clots

Whether there is a blood clot traveling to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) or one building in the legs (deep vein thrombosis), it can have life-changing or threatening results.

Carotid artery disease

The carotid artery is located on either side of the neck. Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque continuously builds up in the artery, causing blockages. The Stony Brook Heart Institute estimates that 30 percent of strokes result from this disease.

Inflamed blood vessels

If the blood vessels are inflamed, it is likely due to a condition known as vasculitis. When the blood vessels swell or are inflamed, it becomes difficult for them to travel through the veins to major arteries.

Varicose or spider veins

Though sometimes used interchangeably, varicose veins and spider veins are separate conditions. Varicose veins are large, dark blue, and purple that appear to twist and press up against the skin. Spider veins are smaller and not raised but can look blue, red, or green.

Vascular treatments

Treatments will vary depending on the condition, its severity, and the overall state of the patient's health. They can provide minimally invasive to invasive procedures to improve blood flow and medications to do the same and bring down other factors being raised by the root condition, like blood pressure and cholesterol. They can also provide the patients with surgically inserted appliances, such as stents, to help keep the veins and arteries open.

Moreover, the vascular specialist will review the most effective treatments with patients, whether they are long-term or short-term treatment plans.

Consult a Orange area vascular specialist

If you are having issues with your vascular system, do not go to any medical professional—contact our vascular specialist. Vascular & Interventional Specialists of Orange County can provide the care plan you need to get your health back into a safe status.

Request an appointment here: https://visoc.org or call Vascular & Interventional Specialists of Orange County at (714) 598-1194 for an appointment in our Orange office.

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