Your vascular system—the intricate network of veins and arteries carrying blood throughout your body—is essential for good health. When something goes wrong, it can lead to serious complications like pain, swelling, wounds that won’t heal, or even life-threatening conditions such as aneurysms or blood clots. That’s where Dr. Luh, a vascular surgeon, comes in. But how do you know when it’s time to see a specialist?
Persistent Leg Pain or Cramping (Especially When Walking)
If you experience leg pain, cramping, or fatigue when walking but find relief when resting, you might have peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This reduces blood flow, leading to discomfort—especially during physical activity.
If left untreated, PAD can progress to critical limb ischemia, where wounds may form and struggle to heal. In severe cases, untreated PAD can lead to gangrene and amputation.
If you notice leg pain while walking that improves with rest, don’t ignore it—schedule an evaluation at Vegas Vascular Specialists. Early treatment can prevent serious complications.
Non-Healing Wounds or Ulcers on Your Legs or Feet
Slow-healing or non-healing sores on your lower limbs could indicate poor circulation due to PAD or venous insufficiency. When blood flow is compromised, oxygen and nutrients can’t reach the tissues properly, making it difficult for wounds to heal.
Signs to watch for:
- Open sores on the legs, ankles, or feet that don’t improve
- Skin discoloration or dark patches
- A foul-smelling wound
- Increasing pain or infection
If you have diabetes, the risk of developing serious wounds is even higher. A simple cut can turn into an ulcer that won’t heal, potentially leading to infection or even amputation.
If a wound has been present for more than two weeks without improvement, schedule an appointment with Dr. Luh at Vegas Vascular Specialists for a vascular evaluation.
Swelling, Heaviness, or Varicose Veins
Swelling in the legs, along with bulging varicose veins, could signal chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI occurs when vein valves become weak or damaged, allowing blood to pool in the legs rather than flow back to the heart.
Common symptoms include:
- Leg swelling, especially at the end of the day
- A feeling of heaviness or aching in the legs
- Itching, burning, or skin discoloration near the ankles
- Large, twisted, or painful varicose veins
While varicose veins may seem like a cosmetic concern, they can lead to painful ulcers, blood clots, and venous insufficiency if untreated.
If you have painful, swollen, or discolored veins, consult a vascular surgeon to explore minimally invasive treatment options like vein ablation or sclerotherapy at Vegas Vascular Specialists.
Sudden Leg Swelling or Pain (Possible Blood Clot)
A sudden, painful swelling in one leg could indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot forming in a deep vein, often in the leg. If the clot breaks loose, it can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, which is life-threatening.
Signs of a DVT:
- Swelling in one leg (not both)
- Red or discolored skin
- A warm sensation over the affected area
- Pain when flexing the foot
DVT is a medical emergency. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, seek emergency care immediately.
If you suspect a blood clot, do not ignore the symptoms—call Vegas Vascular Specialists or go to the ER.
Aneurysms (Bulging Arteries in the Body)
An aneurysm occurs when an artery weakens and bulges, often in the aorta, the main blood vessel supplying the body. If it ruptures, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding.
Common aneurysm locations include:
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): Often silent but can cause back or stomach pain
- Thoracic Aneurysm: May cause chest pain, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing
- Popliteal Aneurysm (Behind the Knee): Can lead to blood clots and leg pain
Aneurysms rarely cause symptoms until they become large or rupture, which is why screening is essential, especially for smokers, older adults, and those with high blood pressure.
If you have a family history of aneurysms or are at risk, schedule a vascular screening at Vegas Vascular Specialists.
You Have Risk Factors for Vascular Disease
Even if you don’t have symptoms yet, you may benefit from seeing a vascular surgeon if you have:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- A history of smoking
- A family history of aneurysms or vascular disease
Proactive vascular screenings can detect issues early, helping you prevent serious complications.
If you have multiple risk factors, schedule a consultation for a vascular health assessment.
Take Control of Your Vascular Health with Vegas Vascular Specialists
If you recognize any of the warning signs above, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Dr. Eddy Luh and the team at Vegas Vascular Specialists are experts in diagnosing and treating vascular conditions with advanced, minimally invasive techniques and long-term care strategies.
Your vascular health is too important to ignore. Request an appointment today at Vegas Vascular Specialists because early care can save lives.
