Vascular Problems

Vascular problems don’t always cause obvious symptoms, but they can cause serious damage to the body when left untreated. At Northwest Houston Heart Center in Tomball, Cypress, Magnolia, and The Woodlands, Texas, Adnan Aslam, MD, FACC, FSCAI, Roy Normal, DO, and the cardiology team specialize in diagnosing and treating vascular problems. The state-of-the-art practice offers advanced testing and treatment options so you get the best possible results. Call today or request an appointment online at the office nearest you.

What is the vascular system?

The vascular system, also called the circulatory system, refers to the arteries, veins, and capillaries that circulate blood throughout the body. 

Arteries

Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood to all the organs and tissues in the body. The peripheral arteries are the blood vessels in the arms and legs. 

Veins

Veins push oxygen-poor blood and waste back to the heart and lungs. Tiny valves in your veins open and close to help move blood forward and stop it from flowing back.

Capillaries

Capillaries are the tiny blood vessels that connect the arteries and veins. They also deliver oxygen and remove waste from individual cells.

Every organ, tissue, and cell in the body relies on the vascular system.

What are vascular problems?

Vascular problems are health conditions that affect circulation. These problems may limit or block the flow of blood.

Common vascular problems include:

Peripheral artery disease (PAD)

PAD is a narrowing or blockage in a peripheral artery, usually from atherosclerosis (plaque buildup along the blood vessel wall). 

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)

CVI is a leg vein circulation problem. The veins in the legs cannot push blood back to the heart, pooling in the ankles and causing swollen legs. 

Varicose veins and spider veins

Varicose veins and spider veins are visible superficial veins that develop from damage to the veins.

Blood clots

Blood clots block the flow of blood through a vein. If a blood clot breaks free, it may travel to the artery in the lungs, leading to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE).

What are the symptoms of vascular problems?

Vascular problem symptoms vary. However, many vascular problems affect circulation in the legs, causing symptoms such as:

• Swollen legs
• Restless legs
• Leg pain
• Leg fatigue
• Skin discoloration in the ankles

Schedule a free vein screening and vascular exam at Northwest Houston Heart Center if you have any of these symptoms. The team can find the source of your symptoms and provide treatment.

What tests diagnose vascular problems?

The vascular experts at Northwest Houston Heart Center determine what tests you need after your initial screening. 

Testing may include ankle-brachial index (ABI) to assess blood flow in the legs and a vascular ultrasound to evaluate the arteries and veins to look for blockages or narrowing.

Call Northwest Houston Heart Center today or request an appointment online to learn more about vascular problems.