Your body is made up of an intricate system of vessels that transport your blood to wherever it needs to go. In some individuals this system works seamlessly, but in other’s problems can occur. Diseases that affect the circulatory system vary, with some primarily affecting the arteries and others focusing more on the veins. Working with a varicose vein doctor such as Dr. Ramon Castro can help you determine if you are suffering from either issue and provide you with the resources you need to address the problem.
What do Illinois residents need to know about vein and arterial disease?
Before an individual can understand the difference between vein and arterial disease, they must first understand the difference between veins and arteries. Both types of vessels have a unique role in the circulatory system. Arteries, which are equipped with muscular walls, are responsible for transporting oxygenated blood from the heart to the locations it is needed. Veins, which rely on tiny one-way valves and elastic walls to move blood, are responsible for returning blood back to the heart. The differences in these two types of vessels can have an impact on the types of disease they are likely to succumb to.
If you have ever consulted with a spider vein specialist or visited a spider vein center, you may be familiar with some of the diseases that affect the veins. Spider veins and varicose veins are both unsightly problems that occur when the tiny valves inside a vein start to break down. Damaged valves may allow blood to pool backwards into the vein, causing pressure that can lead to varicosities. Because of the nature by which they are created, varicosities are limited to veins.
Arteries have their fair share of issues as well. One of the most common is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up on the walls of the arteries. The plaque, which is a sticky substance made up of cholesterol, fat, and other substances, can cause the arteries to harden and narrow, restricting blood flow. This disease can affect any artery in the body and has the potential to cause significant complications. Coronary heart disease, the number one killer of men and women in the United States, can occur if plaque build-up in the arteries near the heart cuts off blood flow. Similarly catastrophic complications can result if plaque cuts off blood flow to the brain.
Can vein and arterial disease be treated?
Fortunately, there are many treatment options available for both venous and arterial disease. Just as both types of vessels are subject to different kinds of problems, different solutions are required to address both types of disease. Individuals suffering from vein disease can consult with a spider vein doctor to access a number of minimally invasive vein treatments. These treatments often focus on painlessly closing off the diseased vein, allowing blood to reroute to healthier vessels.
Similarly, arterial disease has a number of different treatment options. At its most basic, patients are encouraged to make dietary and lifestyle changes to help reduce plaque buildup. Weight loss, regular exercise, and smoking cessation are often encouraged. Surgical options are available to ease blood flow in more serious cases.
Whether you are suffering from venous or arterial disease, you do have options. Working with a qualified vein center such as the Chicago Vein Care Center is a great first step to help you learn more about your circulatory health. If you would like to learn more about the differences between vein and arterial disease, the cost of spider vein treatment, or any other vascular health issue, please don’t hesitate to contact our Chicago, IL office. We look forward to hearing from you!