St. Luke's Regional Vascular Institute assists primary care physicians in diagnosing and treating peripheral and carotid vascular diseases. If you are asking yourself this question, you are not alone. Many people have heard of cardiovascular disease, which is a problem with the circulation of blood to and from the heart. Carotid vascular disease is a restriction in blood flow to the brain. Cardiologists help treat people with cardiovascular disease.
Radiologists help treat people with peripheral or carotid vascular disease.
Peripheral and carotid vascular diseases are often precursors to cardiovascular disease. In fact, these diseases will often occur five to ten years before any symptoms of heart problems. These diseases occur when fatty deposits build up in the arteries, decreasing blood supply to the part of the body supplied by the artery. Less blood going to your toes, feet and fingers can lead to cramping and pain. What begins as decreased mobility can eventually lead to paralysis or even to the amputation of a limb.