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Vascular Disease

Vascular disease deals with the body’s arteries, veins, and capillaries. Many diseases qualify as vascular disease, including varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis, peripheral vascular disease, chronic venous insufficiency, and more. Most vascular diseases affect blood flow in the veins. Learn about the risk factors, symptoms, and tests for vascular disease.

Heart of Dixie Cardiology has a specialized interest in vascular disease and offers the best care to our patients. For vascular disease and related care, turn to the experts at Heart of Dixie Cardiology!

Risk Factors

Family history, diet, and activity level all affect your likelihood of developing a vascular disease. Here are several other common risk factors for vascular disease.

High Cholesterol

High blood cholesterol levels increase your risk for vascular disease, as the fatty cholesterol will build inside the vein over time.

Smoking

Smokers are at a significantly higher risk of developing vascular disease than those who do not smoke.

Obesity

Weight puts pressure on your veins. In addition to vein pressure, obesity often limits physical exercise.

Diabetes

High glucose levels weaken your blood vessels and make your veins more prone to getting an infection.

Pregnancy

While pregnant, the body enlarges the veins to make room for increased blood volume.

Symptoms

Vascular disease can manifest itself in several ways. If you notice these symptoms, talk to a vein specialist to find the right course of action for you.

Swelling

Aches

Itching

Spider veins

Edema

Changing skin texture and color

Restless legs

Fatigue

Cramping

Varicose veins

Ulcers

doctor

Diagnosis

If you or a healthcare professional suspect that you may have a vascular disease, you may be tested with any of the following methods. The diagnostic test will vary depending on your health, symptoms, and needs.

Duplex Ultrasound

A duplex ultrasound is a non-invasive vascular test that combines two forms of ultrasound. The first type creates the image, and the second type determines the speed and flow of the blood.

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)

An ABI is a fast and simple test to check your blood flow. The test includes checking your arms and legs with a blood pressure cuff then noting the measurements. Those measurements will then be used to calculate the ABI for each of your legs.

Unmatched Vascular Disease Care in Southern Utah & Eastern Nevada

Heart of Dixie Cardiology has the knowledge and experience to ensure you receive the best vascular disease care. We’re dedicated to your comfort and understanding throughout the entire process.

From an ABI test to creating a personalized care plan, Heart of Dixie can help you with vascular disease. We also offer services for coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, and more. Visit our offices in St. George, Cedar City, Kanab, and Mesquite, or contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Receive the exceptional heart care you deserve today.