Vascular medicine is a specialized field focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases of the blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and lymphatic systems. These conditions can have serious health implications, making vascular medicine a critical area of healthcare. It’s important to understand vascular medicine and why it’s important not to ignore vascular conditions.
Understanding Vascular Medicine
Vascular medicine deals with diseases affecting the circulatory system outside the heart and brain. These include conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), varicose veins, and aneurysms. Specialists in vascular medicine manage these conditions using a combination of noninvasive tests, medical therapies, and, when necessary, surgical interventions.
Understanding the common vascular conditions you might be dealing with is important to know what to treat and when to seek help. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, reducing blood flow to the lower extremities. Symptoms can include leg pain when walking, numbness, or sores that won’t heal. Without treatment, PAD can lead to severe complications, including the need for limb amputation.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) involves the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs. If the clot breaks loose, it can travel to the lungs and cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. DVT risk factors include prolonged immobility, surgery, and certain medical conditions. Treatment usually involves blood thinners to prevent clot growth and reduce the risk of complications.
An aneurysm is an abnormal bulge in the wall of a blood vessel, most commonly in the aorta. If an aneurysm ruptures, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding. To prevent rupture, regular monitoring and, in some cases, surgical repair are necessary.
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that usually appear in the legs. While often a cosmetic concern, they can sometimes cause pain, swelling, and more serious complications like ulcers. Treatment options range from lifestyle changes to procedures such as sclerotherapy or laser treatment.
Contact Our Doctor Today
Make sure you understand how to improve your vascular health. Contact your doctors at Primary Care Partners serving Northern & Central New Jersey to learn more about vascular medicine today. Please visit our “Meet Our Providers” page to schedule your next visit.