Vascular conditions refer to disorders that affect the blood vessels—arteries, veins, and capillaries—that carry blood throughout the body. These include conditions such as varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), peripheral artery disease (PAD), aneurysms, and more.

Yes, many vascular diseases are preventable through:

• Regular exercise

• Healthy diet

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol

• Avoiding tobacco use

Recovery depends on the type of procedure and the patient's overall health. Minimally invasive procedures often allow same-day discharge and quick return to normal activities within a few days.

These are treatments done through small incisions using catheters, lasers, or balloons to open up blocked vessels or treat varicose veins. Benefits include quicker recovery, less pain, and minimal scarring.

Treatment may include:

• Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, quitting smoking)

• Medications (blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs)

• Minimally invasive procedures (angioplasty, stenting)

• Surgery (bypass surgery, aneurysm repair)

• Laser or radiofrequency treatment for varicose veins

No, many vascular conditions can be managed through non-surgical methods such as medication and lifestyle changes. Surgery or minimally invasive procedures are considered when these methods are ineffective or if the condition is severe.

Symptoms vary depending on the condition but may include:

• Leg pain or cramping while walking (claudication)

• Swelling in legs or ankles

• Varicose or spider veins

• Coldness in lower legs or feet

• Skin discoloration or ulcers that don't heal

• Sudden numbness or weakness (possible sign of stroke)

• Atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup)

• Blood clots

• Genetic factors

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• High blood pressure or cholesterol

• Sedentary lifestyle

Diagnosis typically includes:

• Physical examination

• Ultrasound Doppler scans

• CT or MR angiography

• Blood tests

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) for PAD

You should consult a vascular specialist if you experience:

• Persistent leg pain or swelling

• Non-healing wounds or ulcers

• Visible varicose veins with discomfort

• Sudden coldness or discoloration in limbs

• Any signs of stroke or sudden vision/speech issues

A ruptured aneurysm can cause severe internal bleeding, shock, and can be fatal if not treated immediately. Symptoms include sudden intense pain, low blood pressure, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

Symptoms vary depending on the type, but may include:

• Pain in the neck, shoulder, or arm

• Numbness or tingling in the fingers

• Weak grip

• Swelling or discoloration in the arm

• Coldness or paleness in the hand or fingers