Should I get tested for vascular disease?
Your circulatory system plays a vital role in keeping your body healthy. Blood vessels deliver oxygen and nutrients throughout your body, helping your heart, brain, muscles and organs function properly. When blood vessels become narrowed, blocked or damaged, it can increase your risk of serious health problems, including heart attack, stroke and limb complications. But how do you know if you are at risk for vascular disease? And should you be tested? The answer depends on your health history, risk factors and whether you are experiencing symptoms.
What Is Vascular Disease?
Vascular disease refers to conditions that affect the body’s blood vessels, including arteries and veins. One of the most common forms is peripheral artery disease, which occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the arms and legs. Over time, narrowed arteries can reduce blood flow and may signal a higher risk of blockages in other areas of the body, including the arteries that supply the heart and brain.
Who Should Consider Vascular Disease Screening?
Not everyone needs routine vascular testing, but screening may be recommended if you have certain risk factors, including:
- Being age 50 or older
- A history of smoking or tobacco use
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- A family history of vascular disease, heart disease or stroke
- Obesity
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Previous heart attack or stroke
Your primary care provider can help determine whether your personal health history suggests that screening would be beneficial.
What Happens During Vascular Testing?
Vascular screening is simple and noninvasive. Depending on your symptoms and risk factors, your provider may recommend tests such as the Ankle-Brachial Index to compare blood pressure readings in your ankles and arms to check for reduced blood flow in the legs or vascular ultrasound imaging that uses sound waves to evaluate blood flow and identify narrowing or blockages in blood vessels.
Need to make an appointment for a vascular disease test? Westgate Family Physicians can help? Click HERE to contact us today.