Vascular Disease and Diabetes Specialist in Pune
Understanding the Link Between Vascular Disease & Diabetes
Diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing vascular diseases. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to poor circulation and a range of complications that affect both large (macrovascular) and small (microvascular) vessels.
People with diabetes are at greater risk of developing peripheral artery disease (PAD), carotid artery disease, and diabetic foot complications. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to prevent severe consequences like ulcers, infections, or even amputations.
How Vascular System Works
The vascular system includes arteries, veins, and capillaries that transport blood throughout the body. Healthy blood vessels are essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues. When these vessels become damaged or blocked due to diabetes, blood flow is impaired, especially in the lower limbs.
Common Vascular Diseases in Diabetics
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD):
A condition where arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow. It can lead to pain while walking (claudication), slow-healing wounds, and in severe cases, gangrene. - Diabetic Foot Disease:
Nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation can cause unnoticed injuries to the feet, which may become infected and develop into ulcers. - Carotid Artery Disease:
Blockages in the arteries supplying blood to the brain increase the risk of stroke. - Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI):
Damaged veins struggle to send blood from the legs back to the heart, causing swelling, skin changes, and sometimes ulcers.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Numbness or tingling in the feet
- Leg pain or cramping while walking
- Slow-healing sores on feet or legs
- Swelling and skin discoloration
- Cold feet or legs
- Weak or absent pulses in the legs
Possible Complications
If left untreated, vascular disease in diabetic patients may lead to:
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Infections
- Gangrene
- Amputation
- Stroke
- Heart attack
When to Seek Help
You should seek evaluation from a vascular specialist if you notice any symptoms listed above. Early treatment can prevent serious complications and preserve limb function.
Treatment Options
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Blood sugar control
- Smoking cessation
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
Medications:
- Blood thinners
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs
- Blood pressure medications
Advanced Procedures:
- Angioplasty and stenting – to open narrowed arteries
- Bypass surgery – to reroute blood around blockages
- Debridement and wound care – for foot ulcers
- Endovascular procedures – minimally invasive solutions for blocked arteries
Diagnosis
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) – to check for PAD
Duplex Ultrasound – to evaluate veins and arteries
Doppler Ultrasound - to assess blood flow
Foot Examination – to detect neuropathy or wounds
Take Charge of Your Vascular Health
At Pune Vascular Centre, Dr. Harshwardhan Oak provides comprehensive care for diabetic patients with vascular diseases. With early intervention and expert treatment, many serious outcomes can be avoided.
Book your consultation today to protect your vascular health and preserve your quality of life.