Vascular Associates of South Alabama helps patients in Fairhope, Alabama, with diagnosis and treatment of aneurysms.
Aortic aneurysm is a serious medical condition, and in some cases an aortic aneurysm can be fatal. (Did you know that aortic aneurysm is the tenth leading cause of death in men age 55 or older?)
Fortunately, there's hope—life-saving treatments are available! At Vascular Associates of South Alabama, we offer state-of-the-art vascular services, including treatment for aortic aneurysms and other conditions. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for the care you need. If you live on the Baldwin County Eastern Shore or anywhere else along the Alabama Gulf Coast, we're available to help.
Please call 251-410-8272 to schedule an appointment for your aneurysm screening!
Medical Care for Aneurysms on the Baldwin County Eastern Shore
What is an Aneurysm, Exactly?
An aneurysm is what medical professionals call it when the wall of an artery weakens and forms a bulge or "balloon". The most common location for aneurysms is in the aorta, which is the main artery responsible for carrying blood from the heart. There are two types of aortic aneurysms: abdominal aortic aneurysms and thoracic aortic aneurysms. The former occurs in the abdomen, while the latter occurs in the chest. The symptoms (if any are present) and treatment options for each type of aneurysm vary according to its location.
Are You at Increased Risk of an Aneurysm?
Aneurysms are more likely to occur in some individuals than others. For instance, men face a higher risk than women, and those who are smokers or over the age of 55 are also more susceptible. Having a parent, sibling, or child who has experienced an aneurysm also increases a person's risk. Additionally, certain medical conditions can heighten the likelihood of developing an aneurysm, such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arterial injury, chronic lung disease, and connective tissue disorders.
If you have any of the risk factors mentioned above, it is important to be mindful of the symptoms of aneurysms and discuss prevention and screening options with your healthcare provider. Be aware that symptoms may be very mild and easily overlooked, so it's wise to take an active approach toward requesting medical checks, if you have a higher than usual risk for aneurysms.
Aneurysm Diagnosis in the Fairhope Area
Aneurysms often present subtle symptoms in patients—and sometimes no symptoms at all—emphasizing the importance of being proactive in assessing your risk factors and seeking screening from medical professionals. Early detection is essential for effective treatment.
The vascular specialists at Vascular Associates of South Alabama recommend ultrasound screening, which is an easy, painless, and non-invasive method with no risk to patients. The procedure is similar to the ultrasounds used with pregnant women in prenatal medicine. It's a simple process in which a hand-held ultrasound device is passed over the area of interest. This generates images of the arteries that experts scrutinize for any suspicious indicators, including enlarged or bulging regions. Using advanced diagnostic imaging, the vascular specialists can identify underlying vascular problems, including aneurysms, and provide the right treatment for their patients.
Click here to schedule a consultation or screening, if you're concerned about your risk of developing aneurysms.
Aortic Aneurysm Treatment near the Eastern Shore
The treatment options we recommend will vary, based on the size and growth rate of the aneurysm. For small aneurysms, regular monitoring and lifestyle changes are typically suggested. These changes may include ceasing smoking, increasing physical activity, and controlling blood pressure. Adjusting your way of life in a healthier direction can help mitigate the problem and keep it from becoming severe.
In contrast, larger or symptomatic aneurysms, which have a higher risk of rupture or dissection, will require surgical repair. Our vascular surgery team at Vascular Associates is well-equipped to perform life-saving surgical treatments for aneurysms using the latest, most effective technological innovations. We are dedicated to providing our patients the most advanced and comprehensive care possible!
Aneurysm Treatment Specialists Near Fairhope, AL
Vascular Associates of South Alabama specializes in providing exceptional vascular care to individuals living in coastal Alabama and Mississippi. Whether you are at risk of developing an aneurysm, suspect that you may have one, or have a history of aneurysms, our team of experts is ready to assist you with state-of-the-art medical care. We welcome new patients and accept most major medical insurance plans to make your experience as convenient as possible.
Contact us online for any queries, or schedule a vascular evaluation by calling us at 251-410-8272. Let us help you maintain your vascular health for a longer and happier life!