Many serious vascular conditions develop quietly. Some people have no symptoms until a serious health event occurs, such as a stroke or complications from an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
That is one reason vascular screenings can be valuable. These simple, noninvasive exams may help identify certain vascular conditions before warning signs appear.
What is vascular disease?
Vascular disease refers to conditions that affect the blood vessels throughout the body.
Plaque buildup, narrowed arteries, weakened blood vessel walls, and other circulation problems can increase the risk of serious complications over time.
Because many vascular conditions develop gradually, it is not always obvious when something is wrong.
Who should consider a vascular screening?
You may benefit from vascular screening if you have one or more of the following risk factors:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- An irregular heartbeat
- A history of smoking
- A family history of stroke, aneurysm, or heart disease
- Limited physical activity
- A diet high in saturated or animal fats
- A history of hardening of the arteries
- Being age 55 or older
- Being significantly overweight
Even when you feel healthy, these factors may increase your risk for vascular disease.
Conditions vascular screening can help detect
Carotid artery disease
Carotid artery disease occurs when the arteries that carry blood to the brain become narrowed.
It can increase the risk of stroke and often develops without noticeable symptoms. A carotid artery screening uses ultrasound technology to evaluate blood flow and look for possible narrowing.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
An abdominal aortic aneurysm, or AAA, occurs when part of the body’s largest artery becomes enlarged and weakened.
Many people have no symptoms as an aneurysm develops. If it ruptures, it becomes a life-threatening emergency.
An ultrasound screening can help detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm before a rupture occurs.
Peripheral artery disease
Peripheral artery disease, often called PAD, occurs when plaque buildup narrows or blocks the arteries that carry blood to the legs.
Some people notice leg pain, cramping, weakness, or fatigue during activity that improves with rest. Others may have few or no noticeable symptoms.
PAD can also be a sign of a higher risk for other cardiovascular conditions.
What to expect during a vascular screening
Vascular screenings are quick and noninvasive. They do not require surgery or recovery time.
Family Health Care of Siouxland offers:
- Stroke/Carotid Artery Screening
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
- Peripheral Artery Disease Screening
The carotid artery and abdominal aortic aneurysm screenings use ultrasound technology. The PAD screening compares blood pressure in the arms and ankles to assess circulation in the legs.
The bottom line
Many vascular conditions develop without obvious warning signs, which makes knowing your risk factors important.
If you have one or more risk factors for vascular disease, talk with your FHCSL provider or contact our team to learn whether vascular screening may be right for you.