When Should I See a Vascular Surgeon?

Your vascular health is incredibly important. The network of veins and arteries that carry blood and other substances around your body is keeping you alive, and taking care of this system should be one of your top priorities.

Any sign that something is amiss with your health can be cause for concern. Your first port of call is always your general practitioner, who will be able to refer you to a vascular specialist if they believe you would benefit from an expert opinion. In addition to a professional referral, what are the warning signs that indicate it could be worth consulting a vascular surgeon in Melbourne?

Family history

While not a physical warning signal, having a family history of vascular disease can increase your personal risk of developing a vascular condition. If your parents or grandparents suffered from cardiovascular disease, your chances of developing the same condition could be higher than the average person.

For more personalised advice, speak to a vascular specialist.

Leg sores that are slow to heal

Sores located on your upper legs, lower legs, feet, and toes that are particularly slow to heal could be a sign of peripheral vascular disease. Peripheral vascular disease is a circulatory condition where narrowed blood vessels reduce blood flow to the limbs, reducing the ability of white blood cells to repair damaged tissue.

Weakness in the arms, legs, and/or problems with speaking or vision

A sudden loss of function of one of the limbs, or a sudden change in vision or ability to speak can signify a stroke.

Of course, these symptoms can have any number of root causes, including injury. If this occurs, seek medical advice urgently, whether it be your GP or a vascular surgeon or contact emergency services.

Visible veins

Visible veins tend to fall into one of two categories — spider veins or varicose veins. Both tend to appear on the legs but spider veins can sometimes be visible on the face.

Spider veins are very fine, red-blue veins that, as the name suggests, resemble a spider's web. They are rarely painful but can cause embarrassment due to their appearance. Varicose veins, on the other hand, tend to be more visible and enlarged. These twisted veins sit on the surface of the skin and can cause considerable pain and discomfort.

A vascular surgeon in Melbourne can treat both varicose veins and spider veins using a variety of strategies, depending on the location and severity.

For associated conditions

There are many chronic health conditions that can affect your vascular system, even if veins and arteries are not a primary target. Diabetes, for example, often causes damage to blood vessels, which can lead to a range of significant health issues.

A vascular surgeon can work in tandem with other health professionals to provide comprehensive care and treatment of associated conditions.

In the end, you know your body best — anytime you feel that something is slightly off or you notice unusual symptoms affecting your health and wellbeing, contact a doctor or vascular surgeon immediately.