Diagnosing Vascular Disorders in Central California
Vascular problems refer to a group of diseases and disorders of the veins, arteries, and other blood vessels that make up the body’s circulatory system. These conditions can range from mild — such as spider veins — to severe — such as vascular disease and vascular dementia. Some complications of vascular problems, such as blood clots, can be life-threatening.
No matter what kind of condition you or a loved one may have, neurologists at Dignity Health Central California are here to offer comprehensive neurological care. For more information about our personalized treatment for vascular problems in Central California, Find a Doctor today.
Symptoms of Vascular Disorders
Signs and symptoms of vascular conditions depend on whether the disorder has developed slowly over time (chronic), or occurred suddenly (acute). In many cases, acute disorders can be treated and go away quickly, while chronic conditions may require continual treatment to manage the symptoms.
While there is a wide range of problems that can affect blood vessels, common symptoms often include shortness of breath, fatigue, and mild pain.
Your Dignity Health Central California doctor can assess your symptoms to determine the cause of your vascular condition. Specific signs of discomfort will depend on which arteries or veins are affected, and how advanced the problem is.
Common types of vascular conditions are:
- Vascular dementia
- Blood clots
- Vascular disease
- Atherosclerosis
- Aortic aneurysms
- Carotid artery disease
- Chronic venous insufficiency (causes varicose and spider veins)
- Vasculitis
- Peripheral artery disease (or peripheral vascular disease)
- Lymphedema
- Deep vein thrombosis
Poor circulation and restricted blood flow can lead to serious complications, such as a blood clots and aneurysms. If left untreated, these can cause a stroke. Dignity Health Central California works to prevent these conditions and provides excellence in stroke care.
If you’d like to check your risk for stroke, take our online stroke risk assessment.
Causes of Vascular Disorders
Problems that occur in arteries, veins, and blood vessels can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Genetic abnormalities (hereditary)
- Underlying medical conditions
- Structural problems with blood vessels (congenital)
The risk of developing a vascular disorder is higher with:
- Family history of vascular diseases
- Smoking
- Not exercising
- Diet high in cholesterol, salt, and fat
Treatment for Vascular Disorders at Dignity Health Central California
Treating vascular problems depends on the type and severity of the condition, along with your overall health. In many cases, prompt treatment can relieve symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and reduce the risk of future complications.
Doctors at Dignity Health Central California utilize the latest advancements in vascular medicine, including diagnostic tests, noninvasive therapies, and surgical technology, to provide treatment, at these locations:
Our experts understand that physical health is tied to emotional and spiritual well-being. Talk with your doctor about ways to prevent vascular problems through lifestyle changes and healthy choices.
Dignity Health Central California neurologists work closely with cardiovascular specialists to prevent and treat vascular conditions in Bakersfield, Merced, San Andreas, and Stockton, CA.
