Peripheral Vascular Disease – Are You At Risk?

Posted by: Tampa Cardio

On: February 28, 2020

Peripheral Vascular Disease Tampa Cardio

Peripheral Vascular Disease is often referred to as PVD. It is a fairly common occurring state defined as any disease occurring in the blood vessels not located in the brain or heart. PVD affects approximately 5% of the population. Evaluation and treatment work best at its early stages.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Coldness, cramping, numbness, weakness in the legs and feet. Additionally, nail and hair growth slow. Sores will not heal.

The Diagnosis

Tests are recommended if you have a family history beginning at 50 and for everyone else over 70.

Risk Factors

While some lifestyle choices can contribute to the development of PVD the main causes are inflammation of blood vessels, injury to an area, abnormal genetic anatomy, radiation exposure, or atherosclerosis. Those with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and hypertension are at a higher risk, as well as smokers, those who are severely overweight, or people who are sedentary. Age and family history are also contributing factors that can come into play.

Ultrasound

This sound wave-based procedure can be done right in the doctor’s office. It is safe and effective in diagnosing blockages in arteries. The purpose is to determine the presence and magnitude of disease in the carotid arteries. Carotid ultrasounds are recommended for patients who have suffered a stroke or for those who have experienced episodes of blacking out.

Aortic Aneurysm Screening

This preventative screening is painless and non-invasive and is especially recommended in men who are smokers or ex-smokers between the ages of 65 and 75. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a potentially life-threatening condition that oftentimes shows no symptoms at all until it is too late.

Angiography

Angiography utilizes the injection of contrast liquid into the arteries. Then using x-rays your doctor will have a viewable image of your arteries providing them with the information required regarding the presence, extent, and location of disease in the arteries.

Treatment

Treatment is delivered by way of medication. Medication may help reduce symptoms in the patient. When symptoms are under control a more long-term plan can be put into place modifying diet and lifestyle. If this course of treatment doesn’t do the trick, the physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates may decide to go ahead with angioplasty. Angioplasty is the act of ballooning inside of the blockages in the arteries, and sometimes the placement of a stent to hold the artery open. This procedure can be used to treat blockages in order to reduce the risk of future strokes.

If you believe you may be at risk for or have developed PVD we invite you to schedule a consultation with us today. Give the office of Tampa Cardiovascular Associates a call today at (813) 975-2800 or visit us online to learn more www.tampacardio.com.

Posted by: Tampa Cardio

On: 28/02/2020

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