The circulatory system, also known as the cardiovascular system, is an intricate network of the heart, blood vessels, and blood. This system transports oxygen and vital nutrients to every cell while removing waste products. Disruptions within this system can impact overall health. This article clarifies the medical professionals specializing in circulatory health and the conditions they address.
Cardiologists: Heart-Focused Care
Cardiologists are medical doctors specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases affecting the heart and its directly connected blood vessels. Their expertise covers heart attacks, heart failure, irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), and high blood pressure impacting cardiac function. These specialists perform tests like electrocardiograms (ECGs), stress tests, and echocardiograms. They also conduct procedures such as cardiac catheterization to diagnose and treat blockages in the heart’s arteries.
Vascular Surgeons: Specialists of Blood Vessels
Vascular surgeons focus on diseases of arteries and veins throughout the body, specifically those outside the heart and brain. They manage conditions affecting peripheral blood flow, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) in the limbs. Their scope includes treating aneurysms, which are bulges in blood vessel walls, and carotid artery disease, affecting neck arteries supplying blood to the brain. Vascular surgeons use surgical and minimally invasive procedures to repair or unblock blood vessels, restoring proper blood flow.
Common Circulatory Conditions
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is characterized by the gradual buildup of fatty plaque within the arteries, leading to their narrowing and hardening. This restricts blood flow and affects arteries throughout the body.
Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, refers to elevated pressure in the systemic arteries. This can strain the heart and blood vessels over time. It is often called a silent condition because it may not present obvious symptoms until it has progressed.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Coronary artery disease (CAD) involves the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Plaque buildup in these arteries limits the heart’s ability to receive sufficient blood.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects arteries in the limbs, most commonly the legs, causing reduced blood flow. Symptoms often include pain or cramping in the legs during activity.
Aneurysms
Aneurysms are weak spots in an artery wall that bulge outwards. These can occur in various arteries, including the aorta or those in the brain, and carry a risk of rupture if left untreated.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) involves a blood clot within a deep vein, typically in the leg. DVT can cause pain and swelling. In some cases, the clot may dislodge and travel to the lungs.
Stroke
Stroke results from interrupted blood supply to the brain. It can be linked to carotid artery disease, where plaque affects arteries leading to the brain.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Certain symptoms indicate potential circulatory issues and warrant medical evaluation. Chest pain, especially with exertion, or persistent shortness of breath, can signal underlying heart conditions. Swelling in the legs or ankles (edema) may suggest problems with blood circulation or fluid retention.
Pain or cramping in the legs during walking that subsides with rest (claudication) is a symptom of peripheral artery disease. Other signs include numbness or weakness in the limbs. Dizziness, persistent fatigue, or a sudden, severe headache also warrant medical consultation. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious health complications.
Navigating Your Circulatory Health
When concerns about circulatory health arise, consult a primary care physician (PCP). The PCP performs an initial assessment of symptoms and medical history. They can conduct preliminary tests, such as blood pressure measurements or basic blood work, to identify potential issues. Based on these findings, the PCP can refer to the most appropriate specialist: a cardiologist for heart concerns or a vascular surgeon for blood vessel conditions outside the heart. Maintaining circulatory health also involves lifestyle adjustments, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity.