Many people who have vascular disease do not know they have it. The signs of it are very limited, especially initially. Yet, understanding this risk allows you to get the help you need sooner, potentially limiting the negative effects you may have.
What Blood Should Do
In people who do not have vascular disease, blood moves through the veins and arteries easily, much like a free-flowing stream. However, vascular disease can limit this. There are several types of vascular disease that can impact the circulatory system, causing limited flow of blood into areas of the neck, kidneys, legs, and arms.
Types of Vascular Disease
In some situations, the blood flow becomes restricted, often due to material that builds up on the inside of those veins and arteries. When this happens, peripheral vascular disease, called PVD, can occur. This leads to the blood vessels narrowing and, as a result, restricting the amount of blood flowing through the area. This happens because of that buildup of plaque, a sticky substance that adheres to the walls of those veins. This can happen throughout the body.
Another type of vascular disease is carotid artery disease. It typically happens when atherosclerosis happens, which is a type of plaque buildup in the arteries. When this happens and goes undiagnosed, it can lead to coronary artery disease, which is the most common cause of death in adults in the U.S.
Signs of Vascular Disease
Many people can struggle with undiagnosed vascular disease. Some of the symptoms that may provide an indication of a problem include:
· Pain in the leg when walking
· Cramping in the legs
· Leg or foot pain at rest
· Skin discoloration
· Cool foot
Sometimes there are no outward symptoms. You may have some chest pain or discomfort, especially after exercise. Other times, you may have intense pain in one area of your arm. Because it is hard to pinpoint, it’s best to get help even if you are not sure.
You Simply Cannot Wait
If you do not receive treatment for vascular disease, it can eventually lead to stroke, heart attack, limb loss, gangrene, or even death. If you have any symptoms or a history of vascular disease in your family, don’t wait to be evaluated by a vascular specialist.
Our Team Can Provide Treatment
Premier Vascular and Vein Center in Knoxville, TN, offers treatment for vascular conditions. This includes conditions such as simple varicose veins or more complex vascular conditions. We have the largest team of board-certified vascular surgeons in the East Tennessee area.
Call (865) 588-8229 or Contact us to request a consultation to discuss vascular treatment options for you.