Problems with your vascular health can lead to serious complications, such as heart attack or stroke, and oftentimes, these issues don’t have any early symptoms. Bud Shuler, MD, and Natasha Gray, MCMSc, PA-C, of Vascular Associates, LLC screen patients for signs of vascular health conditions at their vascular diagnostic centers in Panama City and Panama City Beach, Florida. To take the first step in protecting your vascular health, call the office or book an appointment online today.
The vascular system includes your body’s network of blood vessels. The veins, arteries, and capillaries carry blood to and from your heart. Problems in this system can interfere with your body’s ability to circulate blood.
Common vascular problems include:
Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque builds up in your blood vessels, causing them to harden and become narrow. This prevents blood from moving through them properly to oxygenate your body, which can lead to severe disability and even death.
Many times, vascular disease doesn’t cause signs and symptoms until the lack of blood has already caused damage. You should contact the team at Vascular Associates, LLC right away if you notice these common signs and symptoms of vascular disease:
Serious and prolonged blockages of blood circulation may cause ulcers on the feet or legs that don’t heal. Eventually, these ulcers can lead to gangrene.
Anyone can develop vascular disease. Conditions such as atherosclerosis may develop as early as adolescence, but the risk of vascular disease increases with age. Factors that may increase your risk of vascular disease include:
Other medical conditions, such as diabetes or unhealthy cholesterol levels, may also increase your risk of developing vascular disease.
The best way to protect your vascular health is to schedule regular visits at the Vascular Associates, LLC for preventive screening. The practice features a state-of-the-art vascular diagnostic center at both locations.
During your visit, your provider may take an ultrasound study and you may be asked to perform simple maneuvers, such as standing and walking. After they perform the study, your provider interprets the results and sends a report to your primary physician.
The lab at Vascular Associates, LLC is unique in that high-quality imaging is often used to determine the appropriate treatment so that no further testing is required. The team is committed to the highest standards and bringing you the very best imaging possible.
To get started on the path to better vascular health, call Vascular Associates, LLC or book an appointment online today.
