Signs You Might Need Vascular Surgery

Vascular surgery is a subspecialty that treats and diagnoses various conditions affecting your blood vessels. This treatment can help an advanced vascular disease that could lead to serious health issues such as pulmonary embolism and aortic aneurysm. Depending on the type and severity of your vascular condition, your doctor might recommend open or endovascular surgeries. Through his extensive experience as a vascular surgeon, Dr. Jonathan Ellichman Memphis often recommends getting an early diagnosis for your condition. Doing so can help determine the most effective treatment plan and prevent the need for surgery. Below are five tell-tale signs to consider a vascular surgical procedure.

Severe Leg Cramps

Leg cramps are a common symptom of poor circulation. They occur when the tissues in your legs have gotten so stiff and cramped up that they cannot move easily. Leg cramps can happen for various reasons, including dehydration, infection, vascular conditions, low blood pressure, or an illness that causes muscle inflammation. 

If you are experiencing persistent or severe leg cramps related to low blood flow, visit a vascular surgeon. Your doctor can help determine if vascular surgery is right for you and will keep track of any noticeable symptoms.

Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is characterized by an unpleasant sensation in the legs that often happens when you wake up and may last for several hours. It is also called periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) because it can cause your toes or feet to jerk or twitch involuntarily. 

Talk to your doctor if you suspect you have restless leg syndrome related to a vascular condition. They might recommend medications or other treatments like massage therapy or acupuncture. However, if these conservative treatments become ineffective, you might need to consider vascular surgery. 

Leg Swelling, Pain, and Tingling

Leg swelling and pain can occur after long periods of sitting or standing still. It is often a common symptom of a vascular condition. The blood flow in your legs becomes blocked, causing a build-up of fluid that leads to swelling and pain in your calves, ankles, or feet. If you are experiencing these symptoms, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment to avoid other complications, such as leg ulcers. 

Cold Feet or Hands

Cold feet and hands are common symptoms of peripheral vascular disease. It causes numbness, tingling, pain, and coldness in your extremities. They can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs that often reduce swelling. If these treatments do not work, your doctor may suggest surgery to correct the problem.

Frequent Blood Clots in Your Extremities

Frequent blood clots can be a serious sign of severe vascular disease. They often prevent your wounds from healing faster. Frequent blood clots are life-threatening since they can travel to your lungs or brain, thus causing a stroke or pulmonary embolism. If you have a blood clot in your vein or artery, your doctor might recommend thrombectomy, a vascular surgical procedure that can restore normal blood flow. 

Vascular diseases can affect your daily life and ability to practice simple tasks. Fortunately, you can manage these conditions through various conservative and surgical treatments and improve normal blood flow. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, do not hesitate to visit your doctor for a proper check-up and diagnosis. Also, consult your doctor if you are concerned about your treatment’s potential risks and benefits.