While a vascular surgeon does perform operations to help improve specific medical conditions, they also provide other types of care. Their field of interest is the circulatory system, so any condition that affects that system is within their area of expertise. While this encompasses a broad range of health issues, here are a few common conditions that require the services of a vascular surgeon in Scottsdale AZ.
Peripheral Arterial Disease
This condition can be identified by the pain and discomfort experienced as you walk, which is why it’s also commonly called window shopping pain. Typically, the pain subsides as you stop walking or sit down. As the condition grows more severe, the pain may continue even after you rest your legs. This is because your legs aren’t getting the necessary blood circulation.
Stroke
An individual can suffer an ischemic stroke, which is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain, or a hemorrhagic stroke, which results from a burst blood vessel in the brain. In either case, you can recognize that a stroke has occurred if one side of your body feels numb, tingly, or weak. You may also experience blurred vision and mental confusion. If you recognize these signs, getting help immediately can prevent permanent brain damage and death.
Aneurysm
This is a condition that results when an artery wall becomes especially thin and starts to form a balloon shape. It can continue to balloon until it ultimately bursts, causing excessive bleeding. The internal bleeding can be fatal if it’s not treated by a vascular surgeon immediately. The symptoms can include a sudden headache, severe pain in the neck, or a back that’s inexplicably sore or painful.