Vascular conditions have a direct impact on the circulatory system, which carries blood throughout the body. When the circulatory system isn’t functioning as it should, there can be serious effects, so it is important to be aware of warning signs to know when to get help. Detecting these problems early also improves the chances for halting or reducing the progression of disease.
Your body’s vascular system consists of three types of blood vessels: arteries, veins, and capillaries. Arteries are a type of blood vessel that takes blood away from the heart to the different extremities of the body. Veins bring the blood back to the heart. Capillaries are very small blood vessels that distribute oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the body. They then take waste away from the different parts of the body.
Common Signs of a Vascular Condition
Skin Discoloration: Redness, pale, or bluish discolorations on the legs, hands, and feet can be a warning sign for many vascular diseases. It can be caused by poor oxygenation and circulation.
Numbness: Limited blood flow due to blockages in the arteries leads to numbness, tingling, and pain in the legs.
Cramping: When the muscles don’t have the proper amount of blood, it can cause cramping, typically in the legs.
Swelling: This can be a sign of blockages in the veins. When veins aren’t able to efficiently get the blood back up to the heart, fluid builds up in the legs and feet resulting in swelling.
What now?
High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, tobacco use, and family history can indicate a higher risk of developing a vascular condition. If you think you may have symptoms or are at risk, talk to a doctor. Taking steps now is the best thing you can do for your health, don’t put it off!
Here at North Star Vascular & Interventional, we specialize in treatments for Peripheral Artery Disease, Deep Vein Disease, and Varicose Veins. Our talented team cares about your vascular health and offers many different types of treatments to fit your needs. Call 952-960-9399 to get more information or set up an appointment.
Sources:
- Cleveland Clinic, (March 22, 2022) Vascular Disease (Vasculopathy). Retrieved October 20, 2023, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17604-vascular-disease
- Johns Hopkins Medicine, Overview of the Vascular System. Retrieved October 20, 2023, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/overview-of-the-vascular-system
- Mayo Clinic, (March 3, 2022) Varicose veins. Retrieved October 20, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643#:~:text=Varicose%20veins%20are%20twisted%2C%20enlarged,veins%20of%20the%20lower%20body.
- Harris, Ken. OSF HealthCare, Know the signs of vascular disease. Retrieved October 20, 2023, from https://www.osfhealthcare.org/blog/know-the-signs-of-vascular-disease/
